% 



THE 



SACRED HOUR; 



BY 



REV. MAXWELL P. GADDIS, 

AUTHOR OF 
"FOOTPRINTS OF AN ITINERANT." 



* 1 AM DETERMINED TO BE A CHRISTIAN, AND WORK FOR GOD." 



FIFTH THOUSAND. 



CIIS t CIIS t 1n t ATI: 
PRINTED AT THE METHODIST BOOK CONCERN, 
FOR THE AUTHOR. 
E, P. THOMPSON, PRINTER. 

1863. 



CP 



Entered, according to Act of Congress, in the year 1856 

BY REV. MAXWELL P. G ADD IS, 

In the Clerk's Office of the District Court, for the Dis- 
trict of Ohio. 

In Exchange 
Drew Th.^Ototf. S©i*i* 
22 telXQJ 



STEREOTYPED BT JOHN K. GERHARD, 
AX the Office of the Religious Telescope, Dnytoa^ (X, 



PREFACE. 



This book owes its existence — First, to the 
burning desire which still glows in my heart to 
be a " co-worker with God" — to contribute my 
"mite" toward the "perfecting of the saints" 
and "edifying of the body of Christ." Sec- 
ondly, to an ardent hope that through this 
medium I may also be able to procure the 
means of subsistence for myself and family, 
without being obliged to rely upon the usual 
yearly "church collections" for the support of 
her "superannuated ministers." I remained 
at "my post," in the field of battle, with my 
"harness on," until my strength entirely fail- 
ed, and I was compelled to retire from the toils 
and responsibilities of the active ministry. 
When my voice failed ', I resolved to use my 'pen, 
I could not bear the thought of standing " all 
the day idle," in a world where the "laborers 
are few, and the "fields white unto the har- 
vest." 

3 



4 



PREFACE. 



It is almost three years since I have at- 
tempted to preach. I am very grateful to God 
that during my exile from the pulpit I am again 
permitted to speak to the public and my old 
friends through the medium of the religious 
press. In writing and preparing the Sacred 
Hour I can truly say, " This I have done for 
Jesus, my Savior" — the building up of his 
people, and the conversion of sinners. Indif- 
ferentism will no doubt exclaim, What ! anoth- 
er new book? 0, what an onerous burden, to 
be compelled to purchase so many religious 
books for my family. Stop ! my dear friend, 
I would speak kindly with you. The purchase 
of books which benefit the heart, and at the same 
time improve the mind, is a good investment. 
We have a superabundance of unprofitable 
books, works of an infidel, corrupting character 
— almost daily issued from the press. The only 
way their evil influence can be neutralized is, 
by writings of a different tendency. It is a 
matter of sincere congratulation among the 
friends of a pure evangelism that a growing 



PBEFACE. 



5 



appreciation for works of this character is ev- 
erywhere manifested among pious christians of 
every denomination. 

It affords me great pleasure to insert the fol- 
lowing testimonials from well known ministers, 
"beloved of God:" 

From Rev. Michael Marlay, P. Elder of Daytoh 
District. 

" In these days of cold formalism and worldly -mind- 
edness, of unsanctified talent and misguided effort, — 
it affords me great pleasure to recommend to the public 
this tribute to the grace of God, as illustrated in the 
life and writings of a gifted and devotedly pious young 
lady. It was my privilege, during a two years' resi- 
dence in Piqua, and while traveling on the Urbana 
District for the last four years, to form an acquaintance 
with all the persons especially refered to in these pages. 
I have no doubt the faithful delineations of the charac- 
ter and whole-souled devotedness to the cause of Christ 
of Miss Sallie K. Caldwell, as exhibited in this unpre- 
tending little volume, will be the means of stimulating 
many professors of religion to more entire consecration 
and self-denying efforts in the cause of Christ. I re- 
ceived her friend "Amelia" into the church at Piqua. 
and take pleasure in bearing testimony to her deep- 
toned piety, brilliant example, holy walk, and unblama- 
ble conversation before the world. 

" I hope that a large measure of the warm and active 
faith, with all its glow of feeling and life-giving vigor 
— deadness to the world and entire conformity to the 
will of God, that pervades the Sacred Hour may be im- 
parted to all who read it. I would especially recom- 
mend its circulation among young converts, and in all 
our Sabbath Schools. But it will doubtless prove high- 
ly beneficial to all classes of readers. 

" Dayton, March 7, 1856. M. Marley." 



6 



FKEFAOE. 



From Key. Robert . Spencer, Pastor of Park-street 

M. E. Church, Cincinnati. 

" Haying through the politeness of the author, been 

gerruitted to examine the proof-sheets of the Sacred 
[our, I take great pleasure in recommending it to all 
pilgrims, who are traveling to the Celestial city. It 
will quicken their christian graces, and impart new 
spiritual strength for the journey. With Miss Sallie K. 
Caldwell, whose life, character, and triumphant death 
are here so vividly portrayed, I had the pleasure of an 
intimate acquaintance — having had her under my pas- 
toral care. She was all that she is here represented to 
have been. The picture is truthful, and by no means 
overwrought. Like a bright luminary, she shone in 
the church, and her sun at setting broke forth into me- 
ridian splendor. May our life and end be like hers. 
"March 5, 1856. Robert 0. Spencer." 

From Rev. William I. Ellsworth, Pastor of Raper 
Chapel, Dayton, 0. 

" Having been permitted to examine most of the proof 
sheets of your charming little volume, entitled The Sa- 
cred Hour, it is with unaffected pleasure that I com- 
mend it to the reading public. The history and episto- 
lary correspondence of Miss Caldwell and her friend 
Amelia, cannot fail to interest, instruct, and benefit all 
who read them ; and the practical use made of these 
and other interesting matter introduced by the author 
in the subsequent chapters of the book is most happy, 
and will lend an additional charm to the work. 

" There is also a deep vein of piety running through 
the whole book, which will improve the heart of the 
christian reader, and create fresh aspirations after Bible 
holiness. W. I. Ellsworth. 

"Dayton, March 9, 1856." 

The Key that unlocks the Sacred Hour 
will be found in the Introduction, Chapter first, 
or. the thirty-first and thirty-second pages. 

This book does not deal in untried theories 



PEEFACE, 



7 



— it exhibits the reduction of tlieory to heart- 
felt experience in the life of the pure and good. 
I have never yet found time to deal in abstrac- 
tions or subtle metaphysics. 

" A weary pilgrim 
Sighing for the rest to come/' 

I would rather promote the power of Godli- 
ness — the life of Christ in the soul — I love 
to view religion on the practical side, as de- 
signed to operate by a few simple and grand 
truths, on the affections and habits of men. 
• c Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall 
see God." ""We want nothing so much in the 
church," said the late Doctor Olin, of precious 
memory, "in the nineteenth century, as deep- 
toned piety — the ministry alive — as blazing 
torches, and a holy, wakeful membership. The 
sole element of power by which the church 
can do the work assigned her by Jesus 
Christ, is piety. There are many churches that 
have only the form of Godliness but deny the 
power. A mere formal Christianity is weak 
and worthless. It is worse — it obscures the 



8 PREFACE. 

true light and turns men's attention away from 
the living fountain. "What we want at present 
so much, is neither wealthy nor learning, nor 
worldly influence, but Light and Love — the 
light of Christ and the love of Christ, Other 
things are not to be undervalued in their place; 
but this is the only element of power as an instru- 
ment by which the world is to be regenerated. 

"A church may be what the world calls 
a strong church in point of numbers and influ- 
ence. A church may be made up of men of 
wealth, men of intellect, men of power, high 
born men, and men of rank and fashion, — and 
being so composed may be in a worldly sense 
a very strong church. There are many things 
such a church can do — it can launch ships 
and endow seminaries, it can diffuse intelli- 
gence, and uphold the cause of benevolence, 
and make religion respectable in the eyes of 
worldly-minded men. Its members can give to 
the needy of this world's goods. It can build 
splendid temples for God's worship. It can 
rear up a magnificent pile and adorn its front 



FBEFAOE. 



9 



with sculpture — lay stone upon stone, and heap 
ornament upon ornament until the costliness 
of the ministrations at the altar will keep any poor 
man from entering its portal. All this it may 
do, and be what the world calls a strong 
church. But there is one thing," said the Doc- 
tor, " it can not do — it can not shine. 

"It may glitter and blaze like an iceberg in 
the rays of the sun, but without inward holi- 
ness it can not £ shine.' Of all that is formal 
and material in Christianity, it may make a 
splendid manifestation, but it cannot shine. It 
may turn almost everything into gold at its 
touch, but it can not touch the heart. It may 
rear its marble front, pile tower upon tower 
and mountain upon mountain, but it can not 
1 touch the mountains and they shall smoke.' 
It can not conquer souls for Christ. It can not 
awaken the sympathies of faith and love. It 
can not do Christ's work in man's conversion* 
And with all its strength that church is weak, 
and for Christ's peculiar work, worthless. And 
with all its glitter and gorgeous array it is a 



10 



FKEFACE. 



dark, cold, formal church — 1 It can not shine.' 

" On the other hand show me a church of poor, 
illiterate, unknown, obscure, unnoticed but 
praying people. They shall be families that do 
not know one week where they are to get bread 
for the next — they shall be men of neither 
wealth, nor power, nor influence, and they shall 
worship God in rough dingy out of the way 
conventicles ; but with them is the 1 hiding of 
God's power, 1 and their influence is felt for 
eternity, and their light shines and is watched, 
and wherever they go there is a fountain of 
life — and Christ in them is glorified and his 
kingdom advanced. They are his chosen vessels 
of salvation, and his luminaries to reflect his 
light. They may be a church weak in num- 
bers and poor, and despised, and destitute of 
worldly influence — but they are strong in, and 
for Christ, they do his vjorh and bring home 
souls to glory. This is the true strength of 
the church — light and loye — and all that is 
worth coveting or possessing." 

I subscribe to the foregoing sentiments with 



PKEFACE, 



11 



all my heart. It is certainly our high privilege 
to be raised above the world and oompletely 
consecrated to Christ. my brethren, does not 
the language of our fears and complaints rath- 
er resemble the complaints of captives than the 
shouts of victors ? 

We want in all the churches, a general 
" baptism of fire." "We want more "light" 
"love," "heat," "salt" and "charity." We have 
too many worldly-minded, "onejstgxy" chris- 
tians — the spiritual edifice is incomplete. My | 

dear brother and sister, raise the soul a " story 1 

- 

higher" — Amen. 

I would address you in the language of the 
ship-master to Jonah, — " What meanest thou, 
sleeper? Arise, call upon thy God, if so be 
that God will think upon us, that we perish not" 
Awake! awake! Determine to be a more de- 
voted christian, and "work for God." Like 
your Master go about and do good. There is 
a reward in the good done to others. And 
there is a reward in the good done to those that 
do it. It brings a healing with it. — " Blessed 



12 



PREFACE. 



is that servant whom his Lord, when he 
cometh, shall find so doing." 0, for one more 
lofty song of praise. "Rejoice evermore." 
'And again I say, rejoice. 1 

" Lord, I will mean and speak thy praise, 

Thy praise alone. 
My busy heart snail spin it all my days : 

And when it stops for want of store, 
Then I will wring it with a sigh or groan 
That thou mayest still have more." * 

Herbert. 

I rejoice that I have the opportunity while 
confined at home by affliction, to send occasion- 
ally a few good thoughts abroad as it were on 
wings to thousands. In this way the heart can 
tell its story abroad, and lose not its delicacy — 
it can lay itself bare, yet still remain sensitive. 
My warmest wishes and fervent prayer shall 
follow the Sacred Hour, until called to leave 
the watch-towers of our spiritual Jerusalem. 
0, may it be graciously sanctified to that class 
of persons for whom it is especially designed. 
Read it prayerfully — not to criticise, but to be- 
come wise unto salvation. And learn to culti- 
vate the practice of that "charity" which is 



PREFACE. 



13 



pronounced greater than " Faith" or "Hope" 
— of which it may be said — 

" Is one half so fair ! 
To all the rest, however fair, thou givest 
A finishing and polish, without which 

Xo MAN E'ER ENTERED HEAVEN." 

Maxwell P. Gaddis. 
West End, Dayton, 0., March 12, 1856. 



CONTENTS. 



PREFACE, Page 3 

CHAPTER L 

Introduction. 
First fruits of my ministry in Pi qua ; Miss Sallie 
K. Caldwell ; Her birth and parentage ; Awaken- 
ing and subsequent connection with the M. E. 
Church ; Her early religious experience ; Happy 
conversion ; Remorse of conscience, in view of 
mis-spent time ; Renounces the world with all 
its sinful amusements ; Resolves to be a Bible 
Christian ; Corresponds with Amelia ; Its bene- 
ficial results ; Sacred Hour ; Three hundred 

LETTERS AND TWO THOUSAND UNITED PRAYERS. . . .25 32 

CHAPTER II. 

Correspondence. 
Letter I. — Correspondence with Amelia : Her ear- 
ly religious experience ; Awakened at fourteen ; 
Converted to God ; Backslides in four years; Be- 
comes fearfully hardened ; Did not enter a place 
of worship for three years ; Reclaimed through 
the preaching of Rev. ¥m. H. Lawder ; Unites 
with the M. E. Church ; Severe trials ; A gracious 
deliverance ; Desires a correspondence with her 
young friend, Miss Caldwell 33 — 46 

Letter II. — Miss C. accepts the proposition to cor- 
respond with Amelia ; Early history of Miss Sal- 
lie K. Caldwell continued ; First religious im- 
pressions ; Favored with pious parents ; Fond of 
worldly pleasure ; Powerfully convicted at four- 
teen years of age ; Desires to join the M. E. 
Church ; Her parents felt it their duty to decide 
against it ; She becomes disheartened and gives 
up the struggle ; The Spirit continues to strive 
with her ; She is again powerfully convicted of 

n 



/ 



CONTENTS. 



15 



sin ; Her parents no longer oppose her wishes ; 
Unites with the M. E. Church ; The change 
gradual, but her evidence not clear; In May 
185*2, while reading and praying over " Faith 
and its Effects," she was powerfully blest, and 
enabled to say, "Abba Father." Page 47 — 55 

Letter III. — Religious experience of Amelia con- 
tinued ; Determines to be holy ; Exhorts her 
friend to seek the same blessing ; Peculiar trials ; 
Resolves to be firm ; Makes a proposition to Miss 
C. to spend one hour in secret praver, each day, 
until they should both obtain the blessing of per- 
fect love 56 — 68 



Letter IY. — Experience of Sallie continued ; Hap- 
py frame of mind ; " Faith and its Effects Dr. 
Jesse T. Peck ; " Central idea of Christianity 
Accepts the proposition to spend an hour each 
day in prayer for entire sanctijication 69 — 75 

Letter V. — Wholesome instruction and affection- 
ate exhortation from Amelia 76 — 79 

Lerter VI. — Personal experience ; Noble purposes 
and high resolves ; Miss C. determines to be a 
working christian ; Exhorts her friend Amelia 
to press forward to higher attainments 80 — 86 

Letter VII. — The power of prayer; Fresh victo- 
ries ; Experimental religion ; Enthusiasm ; Ways 
of Providence mysterious ; The Sacred Hour ; 
Gloomy feelings ; Joyful deliverance ; The good 
old church-bell ; Its sweet music ; Attachment to 
class and class-mates ; Desires to be alone with 




God. 



87—100 



Letter VIII. — A 
ment of the class 




16 



CONTENTS. 



her time on earth short ; Expresses a willingness 
to depart if her death could only be sanctified to 
the good of others ; Exhorts Amelia to be faith- 
ful ; Instructive daily experience ; Visits the 
sick ; loves what she once hated, and feels, upon 
a review of the past, that she is advancing in ho- 
linsss , Page 101 — 111 

Lettee IX. — Increasing desires for holiness; Lack 
of faith ; Once enjoyed a foretaste of this bless- 
ing ; The world, with all its gaudy scenes, but 
" vanity and vexation of spirit ; " Amelia expe- 
riences the blessing of sanctification; Gradually 
brought into it ; Small class ; Inexpressibly hap- 

gy ; Tempted to withhold her testimony ; 
,esolves to be a bold and decided christian. 11 2—122 
Letter X. — The effect of the testimony of Amelia 
on her young friend, Miss C. ; Resolves to make 
a full surrender at the Sacred Hour ; anxious to 
plunge into the all-healing stream ; Self-examina- 
tion ; Battles with the enemy ; Peace flows as a 
river ; Wandering thoughts ; Thrown into world- 
ly society ; Resolves to be more self-denying ; 
The Sabbath an emblem of eternal rest ; Urges 
. others to unite with her to seek sanctification.123-129 

Letter XI. — The glorious theme— -full and free 
salvation ; Union of feeling ; Mutual confidence ; 
Female prayer meeting ; JNever shun the cross ; 
Cold-hearted professors ; A wrestling spirit for 
the full emancipation of Sallie ; Thankful for a 
kind friend with whom to correspond on reli- 
gious subjects 131 — 139 

CHAPTER V. 

Correspondence Continued. 

Letter XII. — "Waves of temptation ; Jesus at the 
helm ; Rich feast in the class-room ; Life short ; 
An agonizing spirit ; Faith increasing ; Social 
meeting for prayer in the siok room ; Moonlight 
scene ; "0, for a heart to praise my God ; " The 
house of mourning ; Savior graciously near at 



CONTENTS. 



17 



the Sacred Hour ; Sallie laments the want of 
zeal in the Church, and ardently desires the con 

version of sinners Page 140 — 147 

Letter XIII. — Stand still and see the salvation of 
the Lord ; Peculiar feelings ; a holy nearness to 
God ; Religion better felt than told ; Amelia 
deeply impressed under preaching ; makes a pro- 
position to pursue a regular course of reading at 
the Sacred Hour, also proposes to Miss C. to ob- 
serve the first Friday of each month as a day of 
fasting and prayer and self-examination ; Suc- 
cessful kind of praying ; the Bible the best of 
books ; Caughey, and reading an interesting 
novel .148 — 155 

Letter XIV. — Realizing what it is to " walk and 
talk with God ; " The fire of holiness beginning 
to burn ; Holy Ghost religion ; God is love ; Beau- 
tiful poetry ; Nonconformity to the world ; Let- 
ting our light shine ; Refreshed by the society of 
christian friends ; Strong faith.. 156 — 162 

Letter XV. — Shutting out the world ; Looking up 
to '* brighter scenes in heaven ; n Desire to see 
a revival of the work of God ; Fearful respon- 
sibility; House of mourning ; Death of Brother 
Landes ; On the borders of the goodly land ; Fel- 
lowship of kindred minds ; Sweet to trust in God; 
Happy week ; Fresh victories over the world, the 
flesh and the Devil 163—167 

Letter XVI. — The Sacred Hour ; Precious prom- 
ises ; Long talk with a christian sister ; " Open 
thy mouth wide, and the Lord will fill it;" A 
h "tngering and thirsting after righteousness ; 
Great peace of mind 168 — 173 

Letter XVII. — Remarkable answer to prayer; 
Happy in the class-room ; Sermon of Rev. M. P. 
Gaddis ; Blessings of perfect love ; Afraid to ven- 
ture; Repeating the motto; Caughev on quenching 

the Spirit 174—179 

2 



18 



CONTENTS. 



CHAPTER VI. 

CORRESPONDEKCE CONTINUED. 

Letter XVIII. — Happy frame of mind ; Liberty in 
prayer ; The beginning of good times ; Profitable 
course of reading; "It is finished;" Settled 
gloom, no particular temptation ; Change of feel- 
ings; Thorn in the flesh; "My grace is sufficient;" 
My very life clings to that promise ; Severe tri- 
als ; More than conqueror ; Agonizing moments ; 
Committed all to God ; Experienced the blessing 
of holiness three weeks since Page 180 — 188 

Letter XIX. — Slight indisposition ; Remains at 
home ; Unwillingness to cause her mother the 
least anxiety ; A burning desire to be constantly 
engaged for the salvation of the unconverted ; A 
strong temptation, because of so short an experi- 
ence of religion ; Mary Mitchell ; Funeral ser- 
mon in the Guide to Holiness, by Brother Gad- 
dis ; A long and deeply thrilling letter of exhort- 
ation and encouragement to Amelia ; the revival 
progressing „ 189 — 200 

Letter XX. — Clinging to the cross by naked faith; 
Straightened while speaking in class ; Resolves 
to follow the leadings of the Spirit ; Blest by the 
experience of Sister Rayner ; Fiery trials ; A 
singular dream ; A message from heaven ; " Feed 
my lambs." 201—205 

Letter XXI — Our sacred theme ; A flood of light ; 
Victory over evil feelings ; Love sitting porter at 
the door ; An earnest sermon ; Last day of 1852; 
A happy New Year ; Commenced 1853 as a 
christian ; Appropriate Diary Scripture verse ; 
Commences a Journal of religious experience. 20 6-2 12 

Letter XXII.-— A strange and beautiful vision ; A 
diversified pathway ; Elysian Fields ; Refresh- 
ing springs ; Beautiful river ; Point of separa- 
tion ; See, sweet sister, I am almost home ; A 
soul-stirring conversation ; " My work is not yet 
done ; What must we infer from this vision ? 213-217 



CONTENTS. 



19 



Letter XXIII. — The beautiful " vision ; " An un- * 
revealed meanning ; The whole matter made a 
subject of prayer ; Vanity Fair ; Rovers' concert ; 
All-prayer a tried weapon Page 218 — 220 

Letter XXIV. — Beautiful poetry ; " The rest of the 
Ransomed ' ' — his home in the skies; An unusual 
sadness ; Poor health ; Future disposition of let- 
ters Page 221— 223 

CHAPTEE VII. 
Extracts from Journal in 1853. 

Formed some rules for the regulation of her course ; 
Home a type of heaven ; Religion a personal 
matter ; The service of God a thousand fold 
more delightful than when she first stalled. 224-228 

Beautiful and instructive extracts from letters to 
Amelia in 1853 229—254 



CHAPTEE VIII. 

Extracts from Journal, January 1st, 1854. 
Highest ambition to be holy in heart and life ; A 
strong desire to be always on the right side — 
"The Lord's Side;" Bethel cause; Sabbath school 
cause : Enabled during the past year to live in 
the daily discharge of all her religious duties ; 
Resolves to pray twice each day until the wit- 
ness of perfect love shall be given her 255— 25S 

CHAPTER IX. 
Extracts from Letters to Amelia in 1854. 

"Rejoices that 1854 finds her on advanced ground; Re- 
solves to bear every cross — to be perfected in chris- 
tian graces ; Thanks God that she renounced the 
world in the days of her youth ; Harrassed with 
a wandering state of mind ; The fruits of the 
Spirit — "Love, Joy, Peace;" Conversation 
with her mother ; Professes to love God supreme- 
ly ; Desires to depart and be with Christ ; A pre- 
sentiment that she may die from home, " with a 
stranger's hand to wipe the sweat from her mar- 



20 



CONTENTS, 



ble brow ; " A willingness to become a messen- 
ger of glad tidings to the heathen — to forsake 
home and friends for the sake of Christ ; Ex- 
resses her thanks to Amelia for preparing her for 
attle ; Communes with God in the forest ; Re- 
turns rejoicing; Beautiful poetry — " O, turn 
not back ! O, turn not back ! " Mrs. Rayner; 
Excellent sermon by Rev. J. Kewson ; Ruling 
feeling — I am safe ; Latitude in spiritual mat- 
ters ; My single aim to become heavenly minded; 
Letter of condolence to wife of Rev. James 
Cavin Page 259—277 

CHAPTER X. 
The Dying Scene at Berlin Hights. 

Declining health ; May, 1855 ; Deeply impressed 
that her time would be short ; Affliction a good 
school ; Last Sabbath in Piqua, July 9 ; Affecting 
interview with Amelia; God owns me for his child; 
A desire to be released ; JSTo selfish motive 
prompts me to live ; I want to do good ; Read- 
ing the Scriptures and prayer ; A glimpse of the 
Celestial city ; Glorious hope ; Departure from 
Piqua ; I intend to be a christian and work for 
God ; Descriptive letter from Berlin Hights ; 
Sickness ; Last letter ; Triumphant death ; Last 
words ; 0, how bright! 0, how bright ! O, how 
bright ! Funeral at Piqua ; Beautiful poetry — 
Weep not for her 278 — 296 

CHAPTER XI. 

SHE HATH DONE WHAT SHE COULD. 

She kept back no part of the price ; Beautiful traits 
of character; Gifts that any christian might " ear- 
nestly covet ; 5 1 Extent of her correspondence ; 
Testimony to the fidelity of Amelia ; Christian 
fellowship "doubly blest ; " Attachment to her 
class Leader, Father Kirk ; Love for all of Christ's 
ambassadors ; Remarkable answers to prayer ; 
A burning desire to be useful j Faithfulness as a 



CONTENTS. 



Sabbath School teacher ; Willingness to do any- 
thing to promote the welfare of her scholars ; 
Studied her Sabbath School lesson with pray- 
er ; Many calls to do good ; A desire to be 
delivered from selfishness ; Received a great 
blessing while teaching her Sabbath School 
class ; Bro. Jno. Gill ; Absent from her Sabbath 
School class but two Sabbaths from the time she 
united with the church ; Taught a class two Sab- 
baths at Berlin Hights ; a word of encourage- 
ment for a disheartened teacher ; Careful observ- 
er of the Sabbath ; A noble example, worthy of 
imitation ; A self-denying christian ; Shuns the 
appearance of evil ; Not afraid to be called sin- 
gular or over-scrupulous ; Would Jesus frequent 
such places ; Meekness when reviled ; Women 
speaking in meeting — quite too enthusiastic ; A 
willingness to bear the cross ; A time when true 
kindness is most felt ; Visiting the sick ; Com- 
forting a widow ; Bethel Cause ; President of a 
Bethel Society ; Missionary Cause ; Project to 
raise money ; A cheerful religion ; Clear views 
of the exceeding sinfulness of sin ; Found relief 
in prayer ; A sweet voice ; Loved to sing the 
Bongs of Zion ; I greet you with a smiling face ; 
What a privilege to live in America ; Woman's 
high position ; Golden opportunities ; A kind 
word and a helping hand in time of need; 
Home a type of heaven ; Sallie's father a ruling 
Elder in the Presbyterian Church ; Good advice 
to young converts ; Miss Caldwell not a bigot ; 
Her love for her own church ; Love for all evan- 
gelical ministers ; Tribute to the memoiy of Miss 
Caldwell from the pen of Rev. William H. Law- 
der ; A full consecration ; " Could I all human 
souls combine ; " The Old North Room ; A good 
reporter for the press; A great admirer of Nature; 
Religion an habitual thing ; No compromises 
with the world ; Freedom from error the sole pre- 
rogative of heaven ; Full of goodness ; A severe 
dispensation ; That life is longest which an 
Bwers life's great end ; She loved to work for 
Jesus ; Ruling feeling — I am safe ; Enjoyed 



22 



CONTENTS. 



more than she professed ; Measure of her chris- 
tian attainments ; A sweet voice from the spirit 
land; Her last words on leaving Piqua j M she 
hath done what she could." Page 297—327 

CHAPTER XII. 
This I do for Jesus, my Savior. 
The Noble Mother ; Poly carp and the Proconsul ; 
A martyr's spirit still in the church ; Cannot 
serve God and Mammon ; World like an Egyptian 
Temple ; Its emptiness and vanity ; Ko royal 
road to heaven ; Children of Calvary ; The fatal 
Lotus tree ; Forsaking all for Christ ; What 
shall I do when you are gone ? I see God will 
have my heart ; We love him because he first 
loved us ; The ingratitude of man ; If any one 
knoweth anything in favor of this person, let 
him come forward ; What think ye of Christ ? 
What is your testimony ? Louis XI V, of France ; 
Eddystone Light House; The <f burnt post " ; 
Widow's lamp ; A custom in Greenland ; Is God 
in this house ? Is your house known in heaven ! 
Have you a prophets' chamber on the wall ? Is 
Mr. a christian ? It is not what a man pro- 
fesses, but how he lives, that must decide the reali- 
ty of his religion Page 32S — 340 

CHAPTER XIII. 
That I xight glorify God in my Death. 
"Christian behold ! the land isnearing ; ,J "William, 
you will now perceive to what purpose I have 
lived. — that I might glorify God in my death ; M 
Christ shall be magnified in my body; The 
church still in a military state ; Ensign bearers ; 
Dividing the spoil ; Garlands of honor ; No 
charter of exemption ; Perfect through suffering ; 
Life a mixed cup ; River running sweet in the 
morning and bitter in the evening; Wincesslaus, 
the Bohemian Prince ; Christ forming footsteps 
for us in rough and slippery places ; He has 
gone before us and mapped out the way in blood ; 



CONTENTS. 



He will subdue thine enemies from before thy 
face; More than conquerors ; Rev. Benjamin La 
kin; Funeral sermon at Calvary ; " I wish to die 
at such time and place and in that way which 
will bring most glory to my Redeemer;' ' His 
tranquil state of mind ; Looking at his watch ; 
Sudden death ; We should have no other will 
but God's ; " I would refer it back again ; " 

" Though now ascended up on high, 
Christ bends to earth a brother's eye ; " 
" Life — only Life, on any condition whatev- 
er ; " We must then think about God also ; 
Reading of the last sentence; The contrast ; Dark 
valley illumined ; " See ! see ! I am almost home ; 
O ! how bright ! " Folds her pinions at the throne 
of God ; A sanctified life and death ; Read good 
books : Christian and Appolyon in the Valley 
of Humiliation ; The Rev. if. of the Kentucky 
Conference ; Course of reading ; Struggle of 
heart in the woods ; Logic a dry study; The Bi- 
ble ; Glory gilding the sacred page ; The moun- 
tains on fire ; I always took my Bible with me 
to set my Rhetoric and Logic on fire; Importance 
of prayer; Agonizing, importunate prayer ; 
Rev. John Knox and the Popish Queen of 
Scots ; Work for God ; Be in earnest ; Be 
cheerful ; A disposition to distrust God the infirm- 
ity of the church ; Unbelief dishonors God; It 
wrongs three of the attributes of Deity; "Call 
the labors and give them their hire;' 5 Cling to 
Christ; Ruins of Herculanasum ; A device on a 
tomb, of a ship landed in port with all her sails 
folded up ; An expressive figure; A spirited con- 
versation between Unbelief and Active Faith, on 
their way to the Celestial city; Faith triumph- 
ant ; Homeward Bound for the city of the New 
Jerusalem ; 

SAFE AT HOME I Page 341--: 



INTRODUCTION 



CHAPTER I 

Among the first fruits of my ministry in 
the Green street Station, in Piqua, was the 
much loved and lamented Miss Sallie K. 
Caldwell. She united with our church at 
my first Quarterly Meeting, in Oct., 1851. 

She was the daughter of Matthew Cald- 
well, Esq., and was born in Piqua, Miami 
County, December 7, 1831. She had an 
amiable disposition and a cultivated intel- 
lect, united with remarkable firmness and 
decision of character. Her parents were at 
that time, and still are, members of the ISTew 
School Presbyterian Church, and have been 
long and favorably known, in Piqua city, 
as consistent and devoted followers of the 
Savior. Sallie was a devoted and dutiful 
daughter. Her first aim was to serve God 
— next, to " hoxok and obey " her affection- 
ate parents. She was never known to pur- 
sue any course of conduct that did not fully 
accord with their wishes. 

25 



26 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



It will appear in the sequel of this nara- 
tive that, being thwarted in her first efforts 
to seek religion, she became fond of world- 
ly pleasure, and turned a deaf ear to all 
the warnings and invitations of the Gospel. 
But the spirit of God continued to strive 
with her for a long time. When fully 
awakened, a second time, to a sense of her 
sinful state, she still manifested a desire to 
become a member of the M. E. Church. 
Her parents having considered the whole 
matter in relation to the eternal destiny of 
their beloved daughter, did not now inter- 
pose the slightest objection to her wishes. 
With their most cordial approbation I then 
admitted her to our communion as an ^ear- 
nest seeker" of salvation — having a strong 
u desire to flee from the wrath to come and 
to be saved from her sins." From the time 
of her earliest connection with the Church 
of God until the close of her brief christian 
pilgrimage, she continued to 6< evidence 
this desire of Salvation," by "Doing no 
harm," " avoiding evil of every kind," and 
a diligent use of all the means of grace. 

1 have a higher and a holier object before 
me than to write a glowing eulogium. I do 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



27 



not write to praise the dead — but to profit 
the living — to edify the people of God, and 
encourage the weary pilgrim on his march 
Zionward. 

Miss Caldwell drank the cup of repent- 
ance to its very dregs. She " tasted the 
wormwood and the gall," and "sorrowed 
after a " godly manner " until sometime in 
January, 1852, when the burden of guilt 
was removed, and she experienced much 
comfort; but the spirit of assurance was 
not yet imparted. I greatly prefer, howev- 
er, to let her tell her own sweet " story of 
redeeming love." It will be found in the 
following brief extract from her Journal. 

4 'From early childhood I have been blest 
with the strivings of the Holy Spirit ; but I 
long resisted its calls. At the age of four- 
teen I was powerfully convicted. I could 
find no rest. I was awfully distressed in 
mind ; I even wished for annihilation. But 
at last these impressions wore away, and I 
became hardened in sin. I then thought 
when I arrived at eighteen years of age I 
would seek God, but when that period ar- 
rived I was wholly absorbed with company, 
dress, novel reading, and gayety of every 



28 



THE S ACE ED HOUR. 



kind. I entered society with a warm and 
confiding heart, but soon proved, as many 
others have done, that the immortal mind 
could not be satisfied with such hollow- 
hearted professions of friendship as greeted 
me on every side. My heart was filled with 
pride and vanity, but God only knows the 
bitterness of heart I experienced at times. 
My conscience condemned me for the course 
I was pursuing. Finding that Fashion 
made slaves of all her votaries, I turned 
from her shrine in disgust, resolving to seek 
for happiness in Fame. But, alas ! I soon 
proved that all these combined were unable 
to bring happiness and peace to the soul. 
At last, I turned my weary, aching heart 
to seek for rest in the wounds of Jesus. 
After a struggle of many weeks to under- 
stand the way of faith, I obtained relief 
sometime in January, 1S52. But still the 
evidence of my acceptance with God was 
not as clear and satisfactory as I desired it 
should be. Glory be to God! on the 
13th of May, 1852, at the sweet hour of 
sunset, while reading and praying over a 
work called ''Faith and its Effects J I 
grasped the promise — ' He that believeth 



THE SACRED HOUB. 



29 



shall he saved J and instantly light from 
on High shone into my soul. 1 was happy" 

From this joyful period her "path was that 
of the just, which shineth more and more 
unto the perfect day.' 5 On her twenty-first 
birth-day she writes in her Journal thus— 

"Dec. 7, 1852. 

"I feel a deep solemnity of heart when I 
think what a small portion of my life has 
been devoted to God. Many years I have 
spent in sin and folly, for which I must give 
an account to my Judge in the presence of 
men and angels. O, what remorse of con- 
science I feel in view of mis-spent time! 
Alas! I not only boldly rejected my Ee- 
deemer, but served Satan with all my ran- 
somed powers, and rejected every offer of 
mercy from the sacred desk. But I call 
God to witness, from henceforth I will pur- 
sue a different course. I have this afternoon 
solemnly consecrated myself to the cause of 
Christ. / am no longer my ovm. I have 
been bought with a price, even the precious 
blood of the Son of God. My determination 
now is to be a whole-hearted Christian — a 
Bible Christian. I renounce the world, 
with all its ; parties 3 and 4 sinful amuser 



30 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



ments? I wish to live in such a manner 
as not to bring a reproach upon the cause 
of Christ — a cause that I love above ali 
others This Journal shall be ex- 

clusively devoted to record the gracious 
dealings of God with my soul. I have 
found by experience that I am greatly bless- 
ed in committing my thoughts to paper. I 
praise God for his great goodness in casting 
my lot in a Bible land, where I can enjoy 
all the means of grace. I thank him for 
pious parents, for early religious training, 
mental culture, and all the facilities for im- 
provement with which I have been favored. 
The few talents I possess — my whole heart, 
and whatever else I possess — are this day 
unreservedly given to God and his service. 
It shall be the delight of my heart to instruct 
those around me in the knowledge of a Cru- 
cified Redeemer. My sole aim and purpose 
shall be to do good — to he useful, and con- 
tribute all I can to make others happy. O, 
may God make me instrumental in some 
way of spreading the glad tidings of 4 salva- 
tion among my fellow men. 5 I feel a grow- 
ing desire for Holiness — full conformity to 
all the will of God. O, that 1 could even 



THE SACKED HOCK. 



31 



now plunge beneath the purple flood, and 
be 4 wholly freed from inbred sin.' I feel 
happy in a Saviour's love. £ord : I am 
Thine p 

Not long after Miss Caldwell united with 
the church, the heart of the gifted, and de- 
votedly pious Sister Amelia was 

drawn toward her in a mysterious way. 
The attraction and attachment soon became 
mutual. They were as firmly united in the 
bonds of christian fellowship, as were the 
hearts of Jonathan and David. As time 
rolled on, this " union of hearts " increased 
in strength, daily, until they could sing, and 
feel it to, 

" Present vre still in spirit are 

And intimately nigh, 
"While on the wings of faith and prayer, 

We to each other fly." 

This bond of union was productive of 
highly beneficial results. First — A regu- 
lar correspondence was agreed upon, which 
was exclusively devoted to religious expe- 
rience* Second — An hour each day was 
set apart for secret prayer, at which time 
they were unitedly to pour out their fervent 
prayers before our "Father's Throne" for 



32 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



the blessing of sanctification. This special 
season of prayer was frequently called "our 
hour/' or the " Sacred Hour/' Third — A 
regular course of reading the scriptures was 
adopted and diligently pursued at this Sa- 
cred Hour : each in their own rooms read- 
ing two chapters, and the same chapters, at 
the same time. Fourth — The first Friday 
in each month was set apart as a Fast Day, 
and a period for the work of self-examina- 
tion and fervent prayer, especially for a re- 
vival of religion in the M, E. church, and 
Piqua City. Fifth — To this was added 
the daily practice of reading and commit- 
ting to memory from a " Scripture Diary," 
one passage of the "Word of God each morn- 
ing, with the verse of poetry attached, as a 
theme for meditation and a stimulus in the 
discharge of christian dutv. 

Upwards of Three Hundred letters pass- 
ed between them in the course of three years. 
Two Thousand Five Hundred Hours were 
spent in united prayer for each other and 
their friends at this Sacred Hour. The 
sequel will reveal to the reader that they 
did not pray in vain. 



correspondence: 



CHAPTER IL 

LETTER L 

Piqtta, July 16, 1852. 
Dear Sister Sallie: — Pardon the lib- 
erty I have taken, in thus addressing you 
I will offer no plea, but that of a deep 
heartfelt interest in your spiritual welfare. 
You may think it strange, that I, a compar 
ative stranger, should take such liberty, but 
there is a something that draws you to my 
heart. O how I desire to see you prosper 
in the Divine life ! and could I but say a 
word to encourage you to persevere, how 
happy I should be ! I have thought, per- 
haps a little of my own experience might 
not be amiss ; not that I wish you to follow 
my example, for I am too unworthy ; but it 
is that you may avoid some of the almost 
fatal errors into which I fell. But first, my 
dear sister, let me tell you the deep interest 
which I feel for you, is not of recent date. 
Nay, my sister, when you first started in 
this cause, — -this glorious cause,— -when a 



34 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



penitent at the mourners bench, oh, how 
often did my heart bleed for you ! Though 
not permitted to enjoy any of those precious 
meetings, yet I had an opportunity of hear- 
ing every morning of the meeting of the 
previous night, and of the rich blessing at- 
tending it. Time and again did I hear of 
my sisters, bowed at the mourners bench. 
It was then that I felt my heart drawn out 
toward you ; and whilst pleading at a throne 
of grace (as I often did) in your behalf, 
have I been blest and felt a sweet assurance 
"that the day of your deliverance was at 
hand." O wiiat pleasure did it afford me 
afterwards to meet you in the same class : I 
felt that God had strangely brought us to- 
gether, and that interest has not abated ; but 
I feel it is still deepening, constraining my 
heart at this time to thus encroach upon 
your kindness. 

Dear sister, you have indeed started in 
the best of causes, and I trust you will 
never weary in the way. In the name of 
heaven's King, I would urge you to go on. 
You have commenced drinking at the foun- 
tain. May you drink deeper and deeper 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



35 



still. And as von advance, your joys will 
increase, your faith grow stronger. God 
forbid that you should stop short of the 
Eternal City. O, sister, set your mark 
high. Rely entirely upon the all-sufficient 
arm of your Lord and Savior, and grace 
and strength shall be given you in time of 
need. You will never regret it — though 
your pathway may at times appear hedged 
up, yet do not be discouraged — light will 
again spring up. What blessed privileges 
do you enjoy! You can enjoy all the means 
of grace without oj)j)osition or restraint. 
You have a dear sistei to go with you — 
hand in hand you can go to your class, to 
prayer-meeting, to the house of God. 
how would some of your less favored sisters 
rejoice, could they but enjoy the means of 
grace to the same extent. . They can only 
gather but a crumb here and there, as it 
were. Yet God is good, and he does man- 
ifest himself to their joy and consolation. 

My dearest sister, you have now put your 
hand to the gospel plow; O never look 
back. If you should, what remorse of con- 
science will it cost you ! This I know from 



36 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



my own bitter experience. I now regret 
that I did not in the sunny hours of my 
girlhood give myself to God. But God 
has been merciful. If I had but proved 
faithful from the time I first started in this 
warfare, how many bitter pangs would I 
have escaped, and how much further I 
might have been advanced in the Divine 
life ! Ah, when I look back upon my past 
life, what a checkered scene it has been ! I 
would that I could but go back and relate 
all my past experience ; but time and space 
will not now admit of it. I can but give a 
mere sketch. From my earliest recollection 
I have felt the necessity of being a child of 
God ; but it was not until about my four- 
teenth year, that I was powerfully convicted 
of sin, and felt myself lost and undone with- 
out an interest in a Savior's blood ; but those 
impressions gradually ceased. My gay 
companions and society had charms which 
I could not resist. I thought to be a chris- 
tian would not harmonize with mv feelings. 
I was too young; I would wait until I was 
older, and then I would seek the favor of 
God. Thus I lived for some four or five 



THE SACKED HOCK. 37 

years. It then pleased God again to awaken 
me to a sense of my awful condition, and 1 
sought my Savior, sorrowing, and found him 
to the joy of my soul. For some four or 
five years I felt that it was my "meat and 
drink" to do the will of God in all things. 
But, alas, I grew cold and indifferent to my 
soul's best interests. (I had then no class- 
meeting to attend, as I was not then a mem- 
ber of the Methodist church.) I neglected 
all the means of grace, both public and pri- 
vate. I became perfectly hardened, and for 
three years I never entered the house of 
God, nor scarcely ever opened my Bible. 
The Bible was no book for me — my con- 
demnation appeared to be written on every 
page. What a mercy that God did not cut 
me off in this dreadful condition. O the 
depth of divine grace ! God's Holy Spirit 
again strove with me, and I became fully 
conscious of my lost condition, and how far 
I had wandered. I thought I would retrace 
my steps — I would again seek the favor of 
God. I commenced once more attending 
upon the means of grace; but I found no 
consolation. I thought I was forever un- 



38 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



done, and there was no mercy for me. I 
resolved I would never again enter the house 
of God. But my Savior still plead for me. 
How can I give thee up ? O wondrous love ! 

After making this resolve, God directed 
my footsteps to the Methodist church. 
Never shall I forget that blessed Sab- 
bath morning; (about three years ago;) 
I had not been at this church for some five 
years. Rev. W. H. Lawder was station- 
ed here. He took for his text: Hebrews 
vii. 25. "Wherefore he is able also to save 
them to the uttermost that come unto God 
by him, seeing he ever liveth to make in- 
tercession for them." O, shall I ever forget 
that sermon? It sank deep into my heart. 
It appeared as though every word he said 
was intended for me. How plainly did I 
see what an awful backslider in heart I had 
been. Yet hope sprung up in my soul ; I 
felt that perhaps there was still mercy for 
me, although the very chief of sinners. I 
resolved again I would return unto my God; 
perhaps he would yet have mercy ; but, oh ! 
language falls far short of describing the ag- 
ony, the remorse of conscience which I en- 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



39 



dured when I became felly awakened. O, 
how often did I wish that I could blot out 
my existence. O what thick darkness spread 
itself on every side ; so that neither sun, 
moon, or stars, appeared in my spiritual 
horizon ; and then the enemy of my soul, 
with all his art and power, rose up against 
me and labored to trample me down in 
hopeless ruin. He tried to persuade me 
that I was already beyond recovery; that it 
would avail nothing for me to attempt it ; 
that every effort, every attempt at amend- 
ment, every act of repentance wo aid but 
make my case more aggravated, and plunge 
me still lower into hell. 

I will not dwell on this sad picture any 
±onger, but will just add, the agonies of a 
sinner in the first pangs of repentance, are 
not to be mentioned with those of the hack- 
slider in heart, when filled with his own 
ways. With this dreadful weight upon my 
soul, I resolved I would go to Jesus ; I could 
but perish if I fell at the foot of the Cross, 
and if I staid away I knew I should farmer 
die; I resolved if I perished it would be at 
the foot of the Cross; but, my sister, did 



40 THE SACKED HOUR. 

ever a guilty sinner perish there ? No ! no ! ! 
Thanks be to God, none are ever sent empty 
away, who come with 4 c faith believing. " 
But now a new trial presented itself. I felt 
it my duty to come out and be a decided 
christian. I thought I would return to my 
own church, or to that of which I was a 
member. But some how there was some- 
thing urged me on to the Methodist that I 
could not resist. I would leave home often 
with the intention of going to the Presby- 
terian church ; but ere I was aware, I would 
be seated in the Methodist. I felt it my duty 
to join with this people. I had always 
loved them, and believed them to be the 
true followers of God ; but alas ! I knew I 
would meet with strong opposition. I knew 
not what to do. "Where should I go for ad- 
vice? I wished to follow the will of my 
God. I feared if I went to some of the 
Presbyterians, they would advise me to 
come back ; and if I went to even Method- 
ists, they would think it my duty to join in 
with them. Thus I halted and struggled. 
I at last resolved that I would not rely upon 
an arm of flesh — I would go to God — I 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



41 



would ask him to direct me aright, and that 
I would then bow submissively to his will ; 
if he would but lead me, I would follow after. 
I thank God that I was ever constrained 
to adopt this plan. I feel a blest assurance 
that he has led me and guided me by a way 
that I knew not. The more I prayed the 
clearer the light became, so that I thought 
it my duty to join with this people. After 
a three month's struggle and many hard bat- 
tles, I resolved to gather up my sins, my en- 
tire burden, and cast them at the feet of 
Jesus — 'twas all that I could do — and let 
opposition or what would come, I would 
join the M. E. Church. I did cast my lot 
in with them. Do you think, my dear sis- 
ter, I have ever regretted it ? Xo ! no ! ! 
Never! never! ! God forbid that I should. 
O never shall I forget the kindness which 
they manifested for me. Here I have found 
nursing mothers and kind fathers. TTith 
the help of their prayers and kind advice 1 
soon became in a manner strengthened; but 
it was not for some two months after this 
that Gocl again spoke peace to my soul and 
rolled the burden of guilt away. My dear 



42 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



sister, I cannot describe the joy and peace 
which again sprung up in my soul — words fail 
me — but you know, by happy experience, 
the joy, the peace, the consolation of that 
hour when Jesus speaks peace; when he 
bids us return, for he has blotted out all our 
sins. O bless the Lord ; praise his holy 
name ; my soul now exults in this rapturous 
theme. Well may the poet say, "Tongue 
cannot express the sweet comfort and peace 
of a soul in its earliest love." O how often 
does my mind go back to that hour. How 
calm and sweet the message, 44 Thy sins are 
forgiven." 

There was no rapturous joy; all was quiet 
and peace. Would that I could always 
have dwelt in that same happy frame. But 
we cannot always be upon the mountain top. 
We must go down into the valley and con- 
tend with the world. This has been my 
position. Since that happy hour I have had 
conflicts, sore, and many ; but thank God, 
I have not as yet been overcome. I have 
never entirely lost my confidence. For 
some eight weeks after that happy hour, my 
peace was as a river ; I thought my conflicts 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



43 



were over. How sweetly was I sailing 
along! But, ah! this did not continue 
long. I again encountered a desperate 
struggle. I began to think it is of no use 
for me to try to be a christian. I will just 
give it up ; and if I ana to be lost, why it 
will certainly not be my fault. The opposi- 
tion appeared so great, I thought I could nev- 
er endure it. I thought I would go to Bro. 
Marlay and get him to take my name from 
the Church Book ; but then I thought if I 
do where shall I go, or where find rest? 
What would my friends say? What would 
the world say? Would not this course bring 
a reproach upon the cause I had so lately 
espoused? After pondering over these 
things, I thought I would take my Bible 
and retire to my closet and lay my suit at 
the feet of Jesus./ After giving vent to my 
soul, at a throne of grace, I arose and open- 
ed my Bible. The first words that met my 
eyes were these: " Beloved, think it not 
strange concerning the fiery trial which is 
to try you, as though some strange thing 
happened unto you. But rejoice inasmuch 
as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings, that 



44 



THE SACKED HO UK. 



when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be 
glad also with exceeding joyr If ye be re- 
proached for the name of Christ, happy are 
ye ; for the spirit of glory and of God test- 
eth upon you. On their part he is evil 
spoken of ; but on your part he is glorified." 
1 Peter iv. 12, 13, 14. This was enough ; 
it inspired my heart with new courage. I 
then resolved that I would sooner die than 
yield. Since then I have never had a doubt 
but that I was in the right icay, and that 
God had led me into this way, no doubt, for 
some wise purpose. I feel as much as ever 
bound to make my home in the Methodist 
church, if they will bear with my manifold 
weaknesses. I know I am not worthy to be 
counted, one of their number ; but I believe 
they will not cast me out. I have felt, and 
still feel, that we have greater privileges 
and better calculated to inspire our hearts 
with courage than any other church. — - 
Among which are our class-meetings, love- 
feasts, &c. I have often felt that if it were 
not for my class-meetings, T should not pros- 
per so w r ell ; as it is so seldom I am permit- 
ted to attend upon any of the other means 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



45 



of grace. This is a sore trial for me; for I 
think there is no one that enjoys attending 
upon the means of grace more than your un- 
worthy sister. I am looking forward with 
fond anticipation to that Sabbath that 
shall have no end — when we shall be per- 
mitted to worship God without fear or oppo- 
sition. ^Whilst a pilgrim here below. I only 
pray that God will give me grace and pa- 
tience to " endure unto the end." Then all 
shall be welLj I feel, my dear sister, that I 
could write much more. This is a theme 
that I love to dwell upon; but I tear that I 
have more than wearied your patience. 

Dear Sallie — bear with me this time. 
Would that I could ask you, face to face, 
jv$t nov:, how does your soul prosper? I 
trust you are happy, and have been all the 
week. that God would fill your heart to 
overflowing, is my ardent wish, and that 
you may realize more of that i% inner life? 
May you ever walk and talk with God. I 
should like to have a full history of your 
44 past experience," and of your present hopes 
and joys. I believe that I shall ever take a 
deep interest in your spiritual welfare, I 



46 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



love all of niy brethren and sisters in the 
church; but I have a peculiar christian 
feeling for my classmates, and some of them 

IN PARTICULAR. 

Did you derive any benefit from a peru- 
sal of " Faith and its Effects." I con- 
sider it a precious work. 

I trust, my dear sister, I have an interest 
in your prayers. I feel that I need much, 
grace given me. I ask this of you as a 
special favor. ^And now I would commit 
j you to our God and Savior, and pray that 
he may be to you ^'wisdom, righteousness, 
\ sanctijieation" and 6 ' complete redemption,^ 
I am, my dear Sallie, with much affection 
your unworthy sister in christian fellowship. 

Amelia. 



LETTER II. 



Piqua, August 1, 1852. 
Dear Sister Amelia: — In compliance 
with your very kind request I seat myself 
this afternon to attempt an answer to your 
inquiries upon the all important subject of 
religion. This is a theme which for months 
past has been uppermost in my thoughts. 
I rejoice that an opportunity is presented to 
put my ideas in a connected form for your 
perusal. 

It is one thing to speak and another to 
vjrite, you know. I regret to add that my 
thoughts are but seldom committed to paper, 
except it be merely a word of admonition to 
some of my impenitent friends. Unfortu- 
nately, my only religious correspondent is 
my old and highly esteemed friend, Sallie 
Dryden, wife of Eev. D. Dryden, now in 
California. 

Please accept my warmest thanks for your 
interesting letter. God alone knows what 
a blessing it has proved to my soul. I feel 
deeplv the force of your remarks, and were 

47 



48 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



I left altogether to myself, 1 might, probably, 
fall into the same errors ; but I feel thank- 
ful I am surrounded with warm christian 
friends (among whom I number you) to ad- 
monish, exhort and sympathise with me. 
Besides the blessed privileges you alluded to 
in your letter, I trust in God, knowing 
4i all things shall work together for good" 
to those who sincerely love and follow him. 

But to speak of my present hopes and 
fears; I do not make that progress in the di- 
vine life that is my privilege. My greatest 
desire is to sit humbly at the feet of Jesus, 
and learn of him. Oh ! that I may be en- 
abled to forsake all and follow him. I do 
wish to consecrate myself wholly and un- 
reservedly to his service, and ardently de 
sire that I may occupy some humble station 
in life, where I can work in the vineyard of 
the Lord. I am so constituted as to need 
constant employment, — mentally, I mean 
— and to be devoted to his cause, I feel as- 
sured, would be indeed constant peace. 

I know not what your opinions are 
respecting me : doubtless you have, in days 
that are past, heard me spoken of as a wild, 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



49 



gay, thoughtless creature; and so I have 
been, to all appearance. Being of a dispo- 
sition naturally buoyant and cheerful, I have 
frequently given way to a spirit of levity, 
which I now find a difficult matter to control 
or repress, so you can judge I have some- 
thing to contend with ; but by God's assist- 
ing grace, I expect in time to overcome it, 
and have perfect command of myself at all 
times. It has been my lot to be thrown in 
society a great deal, and I have for years 
drank deeply at the fountains of worldly 
pleasure ; but in the bitterness of my soul 1 
had to turn away. 

I sought from other sources, but in vain, 
to satisfy the longings of that immortal 
part given by God himself. I sought for 
happiness in fashion's giddy circles, and 
mingled with the crowd at pleasure's shrine, 
where an unclouded brow and sunny smile 
will greet you, and yet the heart and Con- 
science, that stern monitor within, in its rest- 
less cravings, seeks in vain for rest — rest 
for the weary soul from earth-born objects. 
But thank God, that darkness has passed 

away, and light from on high has beamed 
i 



50 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



upon me : yes ! God's presence is felt in my' 
heart, filling my soul with unutterable hap- 
piness. O ! yes, dear sister, and it is a 
great source of consolation and encourage- 
ment to me, to know that your prayers as- 
cend, to Heaven in my behalf. Praise God 
for Christian fellowship. It is a bond that 
is formed of stronger links than that which 
constitutes earthly friendship. My heart is 
filled with gratitude when I think how high- 
ly I have been favored — blest with pious 
parents and religious instruction from early 
childhood. But O, to think that twenty 
years of precious time should roll away ere I 
should seek an interest in a Saviour's blood, 
fills my soul with regret. O, the depths of 
redeeming love, in sparing my unprofita- 
ble life. What a mercy to know that after 
all my wickedness and base ingratitude, he 
now sweetly whispers, "Peace — thy sins 
be forgiven thee. 5 ' Amazing gkace— - how 
sweet the sound. 

But I must endeavor to give you a hasty , 
sketch of my religious experience. In ear- 
ly years I learned to bow the knee in pray- 
er, but I fear the heart was not always in 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



51 



conformity with that position. It was 
merely a "lip service," and more from a 
sense of duty to my parents than sincere 
love to God. My convictions, however, in 
after years were deep, and I would often re- 
tire to weep over my condition, but not to 
pray. I had a great aversion to humbling 
myself before my Maker and confessing 
myself a sinner, entirely dependant on his 
mercy. My proud heart rebelled at the very 
idea. I imagined if I could succeed in ma- 
king myself better, then Christ would re- 
ceive me. You know "free grace" is 
something Presbyterians do not often preach, 
consequently you will not wonder at my 
strange ideas. It is quite characteristic 
with me to reason about everything before 
receiving it. So in religion, I have con- 
stantly to remember that the heart, as well 
as the head, is to be saved. 

Years rolled by, and as I grew older my 
whole soul was fully absorbed in the acqui- 
sition of knowledge — but alas I found it 
was not knowledge that could satisfy the 
heart. When about fourteen or fifteen 
years of age I was most powerfully con 



52 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



victerl of The Holy Spirit strove with 
ine — I could find no comfort anywhere — . 
remorse of conscience was constantly felt. 

This was at the time when Eev. J. L. 
Grover was stationed here. During that re- 
vival I attended the meetings, and desired 
permission to go to the altar, but my pa- 
rents decided against it: I must not be 
found seeking religion under the instrument- 
ality of the Methodist Church. Under 
these disheartening circumstances, I turned 
a deaf ear to the calls of mercy, and re- 
solved if I could not be a Christian and 
unite with the Methodists, I would not be a 
Presbyterian; and so I hardened my heart. 
I seldom heard the sermon even when at 
church ; I would turn my thoughts upon 
something else. But God has been merci- 
ful to me. After slighting, all offers of sal- 
vation, and scoffing and sneering at those 
who took upon themselves the name of 
Christ, is it not a wonder that Jesus now 
speaks to my troubled soul? 

Dear sister, God alone knows the deep 
anguish of soul I experienced last winter, 
when struggling to loose myself from the 



THE SACEED HOUE. 



53 



bonds of Satan. Many were the obstacles 
that seemed to rise like mountains to pre- 
vent my coming to the Saviour. But I had 
grace given me to overcome them all. Sa- 
tan tempted me often to believe that I was 
given over to %% hardness of heart w because I 
had lived a life of folly, and rejected so often 
my dear Jesus. I was greatly troubled at 
rny want of feeling : my convictions I thought 
were not as deep as should be ; but I pray- 
ed earnestly and continually* day and night, 
for deliverance. I continued in this state of 
mind tor weeks, expecting some sudden 
and miraculous change, and it was not un 
til I gave up to receive the blessing in any 
way God was please:! to bestow it. that I 
felt any peace ; and it was then gradually 
hour by hour, day by day. that I felt this 
change. Here 1 was again troubled. I had 
not as bright and clear an evidence as I be- 
lieved it my privilege to have, and the ene- 
my often took advantage of this to persuade 
me to believe that I was yet to be lost, for- 
ever. God forgive me for listening to his 
devices. I read my blessed Bible, then my 
only comfort, and still continued praying 



54 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



for the blessing, but it was not until the 
time you kindly gave me " Faith and its 
Effects," that I felt the power of Jesus to 
forgive sin. 

It was near sunset, one calm, beautiful 
evening as I was sitting reading and pray- 
ing, with that good book in my hand, these 
words seemed to be spoken almost audibly; 
ic He that believeth shall be saved." The 
question was instantly suggested, Do I be- 
lieve? I answered — I do. All doubts van- 
ished — my sky was now clear. My dear 
sister, could I portray the rapture of that 
hour? I sung and prayed, and prayed and 
sung. Heaven seemed almost within my 
view, and never before had I experienced 
such overpowering feelings of God's pres- 
ence. I could then exclaim " Abba Fathepw 
from the depths of my soul. I felt I had 
the seal of adoption: everything seemed in 
nature to be praising God. My happiness 
was inexpressible. I could say, and feel 
it too, " my Fatheb and my God." Was 
not this enough. 

Well, my dear sister, it is almost class 
jtime, I can only fill this page. I feel that 



THE SACRED HOUK. 



55 



the tie is sacred that binds our hearts to- 
gether. You may know, then, that you 
share largely in my prayers. I sympathise 
with you in your many trials. O ! do not 
feel sad or discouraged ; God is unchangea- 
ble, and he will deliver you, if you only 
put your whole trust in him. Look to him 
continually. I have been greatly blessed in 
reading over that hymn commencing, " God 
moves in a mysterious way." Read it and 
adopt it as your own sentiments. I have 
been much strengthened in writing this 
mere outline of my past life. If you are 
willing I should be happy to continue this 
correspondence. May it ever be devoted 
exclusively to God's doings for us, and to- 
ward us. Let us look forward to the time 
when we will be united in that bright world 
above, no more to be separated. Then we 
can dispense with pen, ink and paper. 

May God bless you abundantly, my dear- 
est sister, and fill your heart with joy and 
peace in the Holy Ghost, is the sincere 
prayer of your faithful and affectionate sis- 
ter in Christ. 

Sallie K. Caldwell. 



LETTER III. 

Piqua, Aug., 1852. . 
My Dear Sister Sallie: — With what 
feelings of joy do I sit down to converse 
awhile with you : I cannot describe them. 
Your thrice welcome letter is before me. I 
have perused it over and over again. My 
heart cries out, " What hath God wrought ! " 
Truly, my dear sister, he " has done great 
things for us, whereof we are glad." Most 
gladly do I accept the offer of " continuing 
this correspondence, " with the sincere hope 
that we may be both profited thereby. It 
was with a fearful heart I wrote to you my 
first letter ; I had many misgivings ; I fear- 
ed that it would not be received with the 
same spirit in which it was written : but O, 
I am glad, now, that I did write to you, and 
that it has opened the way for learning more 
of each other's experience. Tour kind, 
sympathising letter, with the wish of con- 
tinuing this correspondence, warms up my 
heart with gratitude to God. My dearest 
sister, I often feel the want of a congenial 

56 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



57 



spirit — one to whom lean speak of my 
nopes and fears, my trials and my con- 
flicts. I may say truly, that I am entirely 
alone in my family, when it comes to speak 
of Jesus, of Heaven and immortal glory, 
of the bright and cheering evidences which 
christians here enjoy. This is painful to 
me, and causes me many a sad, hitter hour ; 
hours of anguish, in pleadings before the 
throne for those who seek not an interest in 
the atoning merits of a crucified Saviour. 
I can hut plead said pray, leaving the result 
with God. I know that with Him " all 
things are possible. " Then, My Dear Sis- 
ter, in view of all these things, I shall often 
trouble you with my epistles. I feel that I 
have your sympathies, and that you will 
bear with me. In glancing over our past 
experience, I cannot but think that if each of 
us had received the same amount of encour- 
agement that we did opposition, when in 
our youthful days, how many bitter pangs 
we should have escaped. It seems strange, 
that although our parents were both Pres- 
byterians when we were first convicted, that 
our hearts should turn to the Methodists. 



58 



THE SACRED HOUR, 



O, I wisL we had then consecrated ourselves 
to God, and united with the Methodist 
church. The motives by which our dear pa- 
rents were influenced were no doubt pure. 
My Dear Sister, I think that we were in the 
rigid, or why has God (so strangely) brought 
about the desire of our hearts at last ? I do 
not think that vou ought ever to regret vour 

not joining the P church. I only 

judge from my own experience. I think 
we do wrong when we unite with a church 
into which we cannot enter with our whole 

heart. I attached myself to the P 

church as a duty I owed to my parents, but 
I always sighed to be numbered with those 
of my choice. When I united with that 
church (now near twelve years ago,) a 
worthy Brother in the Methodist ministry, 
who was well acquainted with my views, 
and with whom I had a long conversation 
on that subject, said, ;i Sister, you will never 
enjoy yourself if you do. How can you 
conscientiously join a church to whose 
doctrines you cannot fully subscribe ? " I 
told him in simple-heartedness, that I was 
going to join on this wise : that if they would 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



59 



question me in regard to their doctrines, I 
should only assent to those in which 1 
believed ^ and then if they chose to admit 
me they might do so. I felt bound to en- 
joy my own opinions. But they never ask- 
ed me questions upon those points. So my 
sister, I am no more a Methodist now nor 
less a Presbyterian than I always was, as 
regards doctrinal views. But those times 
are past; let us now endeavor to improve 
our long-desired hopes and privileges. Let 
us endeavor to show that there is a divine 
reality in the religion which we profess. I 
know that your oppositions have all ceased 
• — would to God I could say so of mine. 
Let us trust God for all that is to come ; he 
has brought us thus far, and he will go with 
us to the end if we are his true and devoted 
followers. I trust " we are of God." What 
power could enable us to " stem the storm, " 
if it was not pure love to God ? Let us, 
then, My Dear Sister, as Christians, as 
Methodists, set a pious and godly example 
before the world. 

I think there is no class of professors so 
closely " watched by the world's malicious 



60 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



eye " as are the Methodists ; and I have oft* 
en been led to ask — -Why is it? They have 
been (as it were) hunted and persecuted as a 
people, ever since their first organization. 
But what has all this availed? God has 
certainly owned and blessed this people. 
Their numbers are daily increasing. But 
let us endeavor to walk worthily, live near 
to God. and. then let the world say of us 
what it may, we will never regret in a dy- 
ing hour that we have a chosen that good 
part." Let us choose, rather, -with one of 
old, to "suffer affliction and persecution 
with the children of God, than to enjoy the 
pleasures of sin for a season." 

I have felt greatly blest when reading 
that portion of your letter in reference to the 
happy hour when you felt that the "seal of 
adoption ?3 was given you. I think I know 
something of what were your feelings. I 
know we can never fully describe, but thank 
God, what is better still, we can feel it. 
You ask, t; Was this not enough?" I an- 
swer, yes ! yes ! ! God does own and bless 
you as his own beloved child. I feel it in 
my inmost soul. Never! never let the 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



61 



tempter persuade yon to give up "your 
confidence? If you Trill stay yourself 
upon the promises of God, and carry out 
these good desires which He has implanted 
in your heart, you will grow in grace daily. 
Yom position, i; sitting humbly at the feet 
of Jesus, wishing to learn of him," is an 
exalted position. Never did a needy soul 
occupy that position in vain. 0, no ! you 
will soon experience this to be the joy of 
your soid. God has great and rich bless- 
ings in store for you eyen in this vjorlcl — 
and in '' % due time" you shall receive them. 
But Oh ! my Sister, there are greater and 
richer blessings in store for us when we are 
done suffering here below. Praise God: 
praise His most holy name for these hopes. 
0, yes. there are "mansions* 5 in glory, for 
you and me. There are crowns 55 there, 
and ice shall wear them. There are 
" palms " there, and bless the Lord, we shall 
reave them in triumph before the throne, if 
we are faithful while pilgrims and sojourn- 
ers here. Let us not rest satisfied with the 
attainments we have made, but let us still 
seek a deeper work of grace in our hearts. 



62 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



Let us not rest satisfied short of u entire? 
holiness of heart." Will you join with 
me in seeking this blessing ? I have long 
felt the need of it, and I believe that bless- 
ing would long since have been mine, if it 
were not for this unbelieving heart. I have 
always been led to think that it would not 
do for me to profess that blessing, peculiarly 
situated as I am ; but yet I cannot give up 
still seeking for it. This subject has been 
largely treated upon in " Faith and its Ef- 
fects," and I have no doubt has impressed 
your mind deeply upon that subject. Now, 
my dear Sister, let me urge you to seek after 
it, believing that you will receive it ; that it 
is even your privilege to enjoy this blessing; 
and just as certain as you have received the 
spirit of Adoption, so sure shall you enjoy 
entire holiness of heart. O, I desire to see 
you rise high in the scale of christian per- 
fection. 

If I mistake not, from your sister s senti- 
ments, frequently expressed in the class room, 
this is also the earnest desire of her heart ; 
to be wholly free from the bondage of 
sin. I think that she drinks deep from the 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



63 



fountain-head at times. O ! that you may 
both be enabled at all times to lean upon 
Jesus." O! what a world of beauty in 
those words! O! that you may both be 
kept by His power, and be the instruments, 
in His hands, of doing much good, is my 
fervent prayer. 

The hymn, "God moves in a mysterious 
way," has long been a favorite with me. 
The third verse — oh! how often have I 
proved it mine. And there are many oth- 
ers which are as wells to my thirsty soul : 
" Give to the winds thy fears," " Away, my 
unbelieving fear," "My span of life will 
soon be done," "Sweet is the prayer whose 
holy stream." Read this one my dear Sis- 
ter; mark the last two verses. Oh! how 
sweet ! Have you not often felt their pow- 
er? I have. There are many that I might 
enumerate, but let me say, with my precious 
Bible and my dear Hymn BooTc^l have spent 
many happy hours in secret. O ! how often 
have I retired there, when cast down, and 
with those blessed books to aid me in my 
devotions, I have been strengthened, and 
often felt my soul rise high above "all 



64 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



transitory things." My Bible, my precious 
Bible, how many precious promises are 
therein contained ! Thank God, I can 
claim them and plead them as my own — 
not mine only, but they are yours, dearest 
sister. O, let us stay ourselves upon those 
"precious promises: they are all "yea, 
and amen." How unlike all other books 
is the Bible! Here the appetite never 
satiates. Here we may feast with in- 
creasing relish, until with unutterable long- 
ing, the spirit cries "Lord, ever more give 
us this bread." 

This week has been a calm and peaceful 
week xoitJi my soul. I have felt Jesus inti- 
mately nigh. Blessed privilege. I fee] that 
my faith has been greatly strengthened. 
After my severe trials week before last, I 
have enjoyed a calm, but I do not know how 
long it will last. Satan is ever on the alert. 
I scarcely ever enjoy a blessing but what he 
is sure to attack me very soon afterward. 
He is a jealous fiend* Though I have 
learned much by experience, I endeavor to 
keep " upon my watch tower." I have 
continually to "watch as well as pray," 



THE SACRED HO UK. 65 

and by so doing I am enabled to ward off 
many an assault. I have had some sore 
conflicts with him. There have been times 
when my soul has been filled with an 
overpowering presence of my Saviour ; then 
I have felt as though I was secure — as 
though nothing could ever move me. But 
then I would forget that jealous foe, and 
soon would feel his assaults by tempting 
me in every vjay. But I thank God I have 
never as yet yielded entirely to him ; al- 
though at times I have endeavored to reason 
with him. He has made some desperate ef- 
forts to gain a foothold, by presenting every 
obstacle in my way ; and then as soon as 
I would overcome one, another more fearful 
would present itself, and then he would 
suggest — 65 now, how will you overcome 
that?" But I resolved that in God I would 
put my trust. I have never trusted him in 
vain. Thank God, he has delivered me, 
time and again, out of the hand of my ene- 
my. I can say now, with all my heart, 
" Though He slay me yet will I trust in 
Him." 

My Dearest, have you been on the moun 
5 



66 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



tarn top, basking iiT the sunshine of a Sa- 
viour's love, this week? I trust you have, 
and that you ever may do so; but think it 
not strange if you at times have to combat 
with the " Prince of Darkness" but trust 
thou in God, and He will bring thee off 
conqueror. 

You speak of returning "Faith and its 
Fffects." Nay, my sister, keep it, for my 
sake. Little did I think it would prove so 
great a blessing to you; but God uses means 
of which we have no conception. That 
blessed work enabled me to cast my all upon 
God. I was, as it were, groping my way in 
darkness ; I could form no correct view of 
Faith ; I thought it a hard way. When in 
this situation, Sister Petitt sent me that 
work by Mrs. P. It at once lighted up my 
pathway. How simple did the way of 
Faith then appear ! I have treasured it up 
in my heart ever since. I have felt a deep 
interest in you, my Sister; I thought it 
might benefit you. I at first hesitated to of- 
fer it to you ; but I know you have pardoned 
that liberty, now. Sister, keep it, for my 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



sake. You can often refer to its pages, and 
may God bless you in doing so. 

I have had one longing desire this week 
(but I know I shall not enjoy it) to go to 
Camp meeting. O ! I wish I could with 
you attend that meeting. I do hope you 
will get to go and enjoy it, and that you 
may be greatly blessed in so doing. But 
then I should like to see you at class. I 
must try to get all the good I can there. 

Before I close I have one request to make. 
Dearest sister, will you grant it ? I want 
you to name some hour of the day in which 
we can retire in secret grayer, day after 
day, and pour out our ardent prayers be- 
fore our " Fathers Throne." I trust we 
may be blest — yes, often blest, in so doing. 
I think I need scarcely ask a continuance 
in your prayers : I feel there is a bond unit- 
ing our hearts too sacred to be broken by 
forgetting each other at the Mercy Seat. 

I feel, my dear Sister, that I could write 
much more. O ! it is such a treat to me to 
have such a privilege. The theme Eeligion 
and a Saviours love, I could forever dwell 
upon it. Think it not strange, then, if I 



68 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



often trouble you in this way. If I do not 
Bee you at class, or have not an opportunity 
to give you this on to-morrow, I will, per- 
haps, write more next week. I shall await 
with fond anticipation, one from you. 
Write to me whenever you can. Tell me 
all your "hopes and fears." Believe that 
you are communicating with one who feels 
and takes a deep interest in your spiritual 
welfare. 

There is another subject which I would 
like to write you upon. It is also connect- 
ed with your spiritual welfare — yes, inti- 
mately so. But upon this subject I will 
write separately, sometime in the future. 

Now, Dearest Sister, I commit you to 
God — to our God and Saviour. May He 
keep you and bless you with his choicest 
blessing, is the ardent prayer of your sincere 
and affectionate 

Sister in Christ, 

Amelia. 



CHAPTER III. 



LETTER IV. 

Monday Morning, Aug., 1852. 

My Dear Sister: — I have just returned 
from our nine o'clock morning meeting. 
We had a most glorious display of God's 
presence with us : every one present receiv- 
ed a blessing ; my heart is filled to over- 
flowing with a sense of love. Happiness, 
inexpressible, is the christian's portion. 
When Jesus deigns to bless, I feel assured 
your prayers have reached the Throne of the 
Most High in my behalf. Praise God ! He 
is not only a prayer-hearing, but also a 
prayer-answering God. Prayer is the sim- 
plest form of speech ; and this great privi- 
lege is extended to all. I rejoice to know 
that my feeble petitions that go up unceas- 
ingly in your behalf, have been accepted 
and most graciously answered. God grant 
that the baptism of the Holy Ghost may 
descend upon you, and make you unspeak- 
ably happy. 

The Lord went up with me to the camp- 
meetinoc. and poured out upon me such a 

63 



70 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



blessing as I never received — cheering my 
fainting spirit, dispelling every doubt, 
strengthening my faith, brightening my 
3vidence, and filling my whole heart with 
joy divine. O, who that has ever tasted of 
the richness and fullness of grace, could go 
back to the beggarly elements of the world ? 

Since my return, a calmness and peace 
has pervaded my whole being. Yesterday 
my heart was filled with rapturous joy : and 
in commemorating the death and sufferings 
of our blessed Lord, I felt his presence in 
my heart. I was inexpressibly happy, and 
it affords me much pleasure now, to think 
that you and I could enjoy such a rich priv- 
ilege together upon earth. O ! sister, does 
not your heart bound with joy to think that 
the time is not far distant when we shall, if 
faithful, stand before his dazzling throne, 
and join together in the song of the Lamb 
who has washed and made us white in his 
blood? Praise God for the hope of the 
christian. It is both sure and steadfast — 
entering to that within the vail. O! shall 
I not very soon feel the atoning efficacy of 
l|is blood ? ! could I only throw off this 



THE SACKED HO UK. 



ti 



blind unbelief, and come to a fixed determin- 
ation not to rest until I should obtain the 
the blessing, I know I would not seek in 
vain. Fray for me, that I may be more set- 
tled and decided on this all-important sub- 
ject. I know not whether it be a tempta- 
tion of Satan ; but I feel like I ought to ex- 
amine this doctrine more closely. I have 
not as clear views of it, perhaps, as I ought ; 
and you must also bear in mind that I have 
on this subject all my early prejudices to 
contend with. Satan here comes in with 
all his forces, marshalled in battle array ; 
but God helping me, I know I shall come 
off victorious. I think I can say in all sin- 
cerity, "Oh ! for a heart from sin set free.'' 
God alone knows the struggles I have 
had, since reading " Faith and its Effects," 
to make a full surrender of all that I have 
to his service. While speaking of that 
book and its blessed effects, I must not for- 
get to thank you for it. It was not only an 
unexpected favor, but an unmerited one on 
my part. How can I thank you enough for 
it ? I hope and trust I may have an oppor- 
tunity of doing you a similar favor before 



72 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



long. That book shall ever be treasured up 
as one of the most valuable I have received, 
and my earnest prayer is that the giver may 
share largely in the blessing there spoken 
of. O ! press forward, Sister dearest, un- 
til you attain it, and I will most cheerfully 
set apart one hour every day for the special 
purpose of pleading with God for entire con- 
secrafion to him. 

Since writing the above, Mother Kayner 
has kindly sent me a number of the " Guide 
to Holiness," containing an article which, 
although lengthy, proves very clearly that 
holiness is the " Central idea w of Christian- 
ity. I will, if possible, procure it for you. 
It is worth reading. The subject is ably 
discussed, by a master hand — Rev. Dr. 
J. T. Peck. ' 

As you have your domestic affairs to at- 
tend to, perhaps the hour I may name would 
not suit your convenience. If not, in your 
next mention it. and name an hour, and I will 
agree to it. My season for retirement has 
usually been at 1 o'clock, immediately after 
dinner. But I will name, for your con- 
venience, half past one o'clock. At that 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



73 



hour we are free from company and not like- 
ly to be interrupted; but should this time 
conflict with your family affairs, I hope you 
will feel free to change it. 

Saturday Afternoon. — I am delighted to 
find that I have again an opportunity to re- 
sume my pen, to retire from the bustle and 
confusion of the world, and speak of God and 
his goodness to me. 

This has been a week of tranquil happi- 
ness to my soul. I have been enabled to live 
and walk close by the side of my Eedeemer. 
He is unspeakably precious to me. My 
mouth is filled with praise and gratitude to 
Him for the constant and unnumbered bless- 
ings he is continually showering upon my 
path. I praise him with my whole heart 
that he has directed you to aid, counsel and 
encourage me, in my christian course. It 
greatly strengthens me. I hope you will 
waive all formalities, and whenever an op- 
portunity occurs write to me how T you are 
progressing in the Divine life — narrating 
all your temptations, joys and sorrows. Be 
assured they will meet with a warm welcome. 

I am glad to-morrow is the Sabbath. It 



74 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



seems so long since our last class-meeting. 
I have looked forward with eager anticipa- 
tions to it. I know there are great blessings 
in store for us then. 

Some of our number who have been seek- 
ing Jesus in the pardon of their sins for many 
months, are now rejoicing in the love of 
their Saviour. Praise the Lord ! all of our 
members can now testify that God has power 
on earth to forgive sin. O ! that we may be 
enabled to show to the world, by a godly 
walk and conversation, that we have passed 
from death unto life. God grant that I may 
never be a stumbling block in the way of 
others. I feel deeply the necessity of show- 
ing a christian deportment before my young 
associates, that they may be led to inquire 
what they must do to be saved. It is the 
earnest desire of my heart that the church 
— the whole church — -every member of it 
would engage more zealously in the great 
work of pursuading the unconverted to turn 
to God. O ! that those with whom you are 
connected by the nearest and dearest ties of 
relationship, could see in what an awful 
condition they are while without an interest 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



75 



in a Saviours blood. God does hear and 
answer prayer, and he will yet accomplish 
that which seems impossible to us. Then, 
dearest sister, we will still pray and believe 
that our prayers do not ascend in vain. 

" Faith adds new charms to earthly bliss, 

Arid saves me from its snares ; 
Its aid in every duty brings 

And softens all my cares." 

I shall wait with impatience another Sab- 
bath to hear from you. Remember our 
Sacked Hour of prayer. May God bless 
you abundantly, is my prayer. 

Sallie. 



LETTER V. 



Piq.ua, August, 1852. 
My Dear Sallie: — Having a few mo- 
ments alone, I gladly seize upon them to 
converse awhile with you upon the all-glo- 
rious theme of Salvation, and a Savior's 
love. A thenae on which "I could forever 
think and speak.-' I thank God, my love is 
daily increasing. My soul appears to be 
swallowed up in this glorious subject. I 
know not what God is about to do for me. 
I have thought at times that he was either go- 
ing to accomplish a much greater work in my 
heart, or else cut it short and take me home. 
I can truly say, "Thy will, O Lord, be 
done. I cannot tell you the feelings of my 
heart. I have been and am still unspeaka- 
bly happy. Never before have I been per- 
mitted, at any one time, to have such an 
abiding peace. I had some fears last Sab- 
bath that there was some trial wins; to be- 
fall me, as I scarcely ever enjoy a blessing 
without being severely tempted afterwards; 
but, thank God, so far my sky is clear. 

76 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



77 



Hallelujah to his name ! I rejoice with un- 
speakable joy in your behalf. Thank God 
for what you have been permitted to enjoy. 
But, O ! it is only a mere foretaste of that 
which is in store for you. Keep close by 
the side of your and my Redeemer. Go on, 
and God will keep, sustain, and direct you, 
while you rely wholly upon him. Your ex- 
perience is that of God's people. To rejoice 
in the Lord, at all times, is your privilege ; 
but will perhaps not always be your attain- 
ment. The Lord has done great things for 
you, whereof I am glad. But the warfare is 
not over ! You will doubtless have to endure 
trials, as others ; but fix your anchor of hope 
on that sure foundation which God has laid 
in Zion — Christ himself. Trust in him to 
save you from every evil, without you and 
within you. When your own weakness 
ginks you, try to be strong in His strength. 
When guilt disturbs, wash in the open 
Fountain. Hold fast the beginning of your 
confidence unto the end. There is no stand- 
ing still in religion : we must either be on 
the advance or else losing ground. God 
grant that you and I may ever be among 



78 



THE BACKED HOUR. 



those who are constantly upon the advance. 
I feel like urging my passage onward. 
There is much goodly land to be possessed ; 
"let us go up and possess it." 

Examine well the doctrine of sanctifica- 
tion, if you are not decided. O! that God 
may enable you to decide aright, is my 
ardent prayer. I feel that the language of 
my heart is — 

"I thirst, thou wounded Lamb of G-od, 
To wash me in thy cleansing blood ; 
To dwell within thy wounds : then pain 
Is sweet, and life or death is gain." 

Would to God I could say, with a firm and 
believing heart, the following verse, 

'* Take my poor heart and let it be 
Forever closed to all but thee : 
Seal thou my breast, and let me wear 
That pledge of love forever there." 

But this blind unbelief, this stubborn heart 
— O ! that I could " laugh at impossibilities," 
and enter in and take possession of my 
rest! 0,let the language of our hearts be, 
We will not let thee go till we thy name, 
thy nature know." 

I am glad that you so cheerfully consent- 
ed to my proposition. The hour you name 
could not suit me better. Believe me, 
dearest, it shall ever be kept sacred. O! 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



79 



let me with you adore and praise God for 
that unity of feeling which he has inspired 
in our hearts toward each other. May we 
ever strive to build each other up, and aid, 
counsel and encourage one another. ! I 
thank you from the depth of my heart for 
every prayer, every breath of prayer that 
has ascended in my behalf. I know, I feel 
a blest assurance that they have been an- 
swered. I have felt often while supplica- 
ting a throne of mercy on your behalf, a 
blest assurance that they were not in vain. 
Thank God, He does answ r er prayer. Let 
us, my dearest Sister, still persevere. God 
will, in due time, crown our efforts. 

Your affectionate 

Amelia. 







LETTER VL 



Piqua, Wednesday Sept., 1852. 
Ever Dearest Sister : — I seize a leisure 
moment amid the cares of life to write upon 
the all absorbing theme of religion. It is 
a dear privilege to read and re-read your last 
letter. Your experience will prove profita- 
ble to me in many respects. Indeed it has 
already done me good. Doubtless were I 
left to plod on alone, without any warning 
voice or friendly caution to avoid the snares 
and besetments that lie in the path of the 
young convert, I should fall into some 
errors, which the wily tempter is ever ready 
to present in an attractive form. I find that I 
must continually watch as well as pray. But 
I know in whom I have put my trust, and I 
shall never be confounded. u He that is 
for me is greater than all that can be 
against me." O, how often have I realized 
God to be a present help in every time of 
need. I feel deeply the need of sanctifying 
grace to preserve me from the evils which 
surround me. I am pressing forward to 

80 



THE SACRED HOtTR. 



81 



obtain that inestimable blessing of holiness. 
O! that I could be set free — wholly 
cleansed from sin and unrighteousness. 
Lord, increase our faith, and forgive this 
spirit of doubting — it is so wicked. Let 
us pray with strong faith to have it removed, 
and soon this blessing will be ours. Dear- 
est sister, you are almost in possession of 
it. O, press forward continually, and your 
fervent prayer will be answered. But should 
it be otherwise, as you have intimated, that 
perhaps death would i; cut short the work"— 
you will be prepared, with your " lamp trim- 
med and burning." It is my prayer, howev- 
er, that you may be spared to be instru- 
mental in doing much good, — and become 
still more eminently useful in the vineyard 
of the Lord. 

There is a great work to be accomplished 
in the world, and our branch of the church 
is destined to have no small share of it. 
If our hearts are filled with love to God, 
and if holiness be inscribed upon our banners, 
we shall go forth from "conquering to 
conquer." I long to lay aside everything, 
and consecrate myself, my talents, my infiu- 
6 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



ence,— -and lay everything upon the altar, and 
enter with my whole soul into the work of 
persuading sinners to turn to God. I 
have a continual longing to be a working 
christian. Providence permitting, this 
shall be my sphere in life. This is my 
present intention, if God will own and bless 
my labors. My convictions of duty, upon 
this point, are strong; and the Lord being 
my helper, I hope, at no very distant day, 
to put them into execution. 

# # * # # # 
O that I may have my " feet shod with 
the gospel of peace," and become a mes- 
senger of glad tidings to all people. O, 
could I only be the means, in the hands of 
God, of saving one perishing soul from ev- 
erlasting death, I should feel amply paid 
for any of my toils. Pray that I may be 
strengthened in my resolutions, and that I 
may never falter, but aim higher and high- 
er, until made perfect in Christ Jesus. God 
grant that I may be more consistent, ener- 
getic and faithful in the performance of all 
my christian duties. Your prayers have 
been a great help to me. I am weak, and 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



83 



only a child in my religious profession. 
Consequently I feel the need of advice and 
encouragement. 

Thanks be to God, "the lines are fallen 
to me in pleasant places." I have compara- 
tively little to try me. I meet with no bit- 
ter and persevering opposition, like many 
of my dear friends. My skies are clear — ■ 
everything is beautiful and bright around 
me. All that heart could wish is mine. 
Warm and sincere friends throng my cheer- 
ful path, pointing to our home above, and 
beckoning me to follow. I am happy, very 
happy this morning, in a Saviour's love. I 
have been greatly blessed while sitting here 
and telling you of God's kind dealings to- 
ward me. 

This week I have been enabled to keep 
my covenant vows — up to the present time, 
I have, with God's assistance, overcome 
strong temptations. I have no trials to speak 
of, but I have made some progress in the 
divine life. I have had some precious sea- 
sons during our Sacred Hour of prayer. 

t£ 3£ ^ ^ ^ 

As you remarked, why is it that our 



84 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



brothers and sisters rest satisfied short of 
this great salvation ? I daily feel the need 
of it, and am determined to press for- 
ward for its attainment. God has said, in 
his holy word, without holiness of heart we 
can never see the Lord. This is a solemn 
thought for the unsanctified believer to pon- 
der in his own mind 

Saturday Afternoon. — A kind and 
merciful Providence has watched over me, 
and I am permitted once more to retire from 
the world, to commune with my blessed Sa- 
viour, and devote a little time to the delight- 
ful task of writing out what God is still 
doing for me. Bjit first I must say, it re- 
joices my poor heart to see you in the en- 
joyment of such an abiding peace. Some- 
times, in thinking over your experience, I 
am led to believe that if you would on]y 
exercise more faith, you would now find 
yourself in the possession of this great 
blessing. Perhaps you are looking for a 
greater change than you have a right to ex- 
pect. Many persons that have experienced 
sanctification speak of similar results. I 
am anxious that you should enjoy this bless- 



THE SACRED HOUK. 



85 



vng. I hope, therefore, yon will not feel of- 
fended at me for attempting to exhort one 
who has been a professing christian so much 
longer than myself. 

My sister thanks you with all her heart, 
for your kind wishes, and" hopes, in return, 
that you will press forward for the rich 
blessings that are in store for you, not only 
while on earth, but to the crown prepared 
for all who love God with their whole heart, 
in the world to come. You have her pray- 
ers for your success in the heavenly race. 
N ow let me join her in wishing you tc God 
speed." It is my earnest prayer that you 
may live long to be a shining light to all 
around you, — that they may be constrained 
to glorify God. 

In conclusion I would say, do not feel as 
though you had written anything on any 
subject but that has been joyfully and 
thankfully received. It will prove a great 
blessing to me. You have now received a 
large share of my confidence : I trust I may 
never have reason to regret it. My heart 
bounds in joyful anticipation of meeting 
you in the class room in the morning, and 



86 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



there I pray we may mutually meet a dearei 
friend — Jesus. Write me a long letter — 
it will be very acceptable. 

Yours affectionately, 

Sallie. 



LETTER VII. 



Piqua, Monday, Sept., 1852. 

My Dearest Sister : — I cannot refrain 
from telling you this morning what the 
Lord is still graciously doing for me. O, I 
am happy — happy beyond expression. Je- 
sus, sweet Jesus, still deigns to smile upon me. 
O, Sallie, my arms of faith this morning 
would encircle you. How sweetly could 
1 clasp you to my heart and say, O, how 
precious is that Saviour to our souls. 

You are happy now — 1 feel it in my in- 
most soul. How my heart rejoiced yester- 
day morning, while you were speaking of 
the great blessing you had enjoyed on Mon- 
day evening. I am satisfied your joys are 
but commencing — you are but beginning 
to taste them. Soon you shall drink deeper 
and deeper. O, praise God ! I feel that 
my joys are daily increasing. My hopes 
are brightening: I am gaining fresh victo- 
ries over my wicked heart every day. There 
is a power in prayer, of which we cannot 
form any just conception. I know that 

87 



88 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



yours have graciously availed in my behalf. 

I was fed and feasted yesterday evening, 
at church. Let me tell you it was a feast 
to my hungry soul. I have felt much 
strengthened, and feel like urging my way 
onward with renewed vigor. O, I do praise 
God for religion — heartfelt, experimental 
religion. Ah, dear sister, we cannot pos- 
sess this long, without feeling and knowing 
for ourselves, "that we have passed from 
death unto life." Thank God! that we are 
the happy recipients of his mercies — that 
we can testify to all around that J esus has 
"power on earth to forgive sins." The lan- 
guage of my heart is, O, that I had a trum- 
pet voice: I would sound it so loud that all 
the world might hear of a Saviour's love. 
Many call this enthusiasm. Well, thank 
God, it is an enthusiasm that makes the soul 
happy. I feel it now. Praise God, I be- 
lieve your heart is exulting in it, also. 
When Jesus smiles, we need not care who 
frowns. Glory be to God ! Jesus is now 
whispering, I am his, and not I alone, but 
my sister Sallie is His. cC O, let us exalt 
His name together. O, come and magnify 



THE SACKED HOCK. 



89 



the Lord with me." Thank God! we have 
sought Him, and He has heard us, and de- 
livered us from all our fears. Glory! 
Glory ! ! Glory ! ! ! Hallelujah ! to His name ! 
I can but wonder, and adore Him for what his 
amazing mercy has accomplished in my be- 
half. i% 0. to grace how great a debtor! 53 
Thank God. it is free for all. O yes. it is 
free as the air we breathe: 0. that all would 
taste it, and live. I feel grateful to God 
for the many mercies extended to me. I 
am unworthy of the least of them. 

I adore God. above all things, for the 
bright hopes of Heaven which I enjoy, and 
for the privilege — the high privilege — of 
being numbered with his people. O yes, I 
have a name and a place among the Meth- 
odists My heart flows out in grati- 
tude to God for this privilege — to freely 
express my feelings to you. How mysterious 
the ways of Providence ! And is not this one 
of his "mysterious ways" — that our hearts 
should be thus united in this all-glorious 
cause? 

" Together let us sweetly live, 
Together let us die ; 



90 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



Ana each a starry crown receive, 
And reign above the sky." 

O, yes — what height of rapture ! 

Thursday —The clock strikes three — a 
holy calm spreads itself over my feelings. 
A deep abiding peace sinks into my soul. 
Our Sacred Hour of prayer to-day, has 
been holy, calm and sweet. Here I am, 
still retired from the busy world. I love to 
be alone at times, to hold sweet communion 
with my God. And how is my dear 
sister Sallie? How does your soul prosper? 
Have you been happy, and are you still hap- 
py ? And how fares our Sacred Hour with 
you? Has not your heart at times beeD 
made happy ? I have had some happy sea- 
sons, and have felt that our prayers did not 
ascend in vain. Yesterday I was made very 
happy. I felt as though I could hear your 
breathing soul go up in prayer to God. I 
desired to kneel by your side. I felt that 
though parted in body, yet our spirits held 

sweet communion together I have 

often experienced that He was not confined 
to time or number, but when and wherever 
we lift our hearts in prayer to God, in a 
right manner, he will hear and answer. 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



91 



f have enjoyed many blessed seasons wneD 
none but the eye of God beheld me. O, 
now often has he dried my bitter tears, and 
made my heart rejoice. 

"Ah, whither could we flee for aid, 
When tempted, desolate, dismayed ; 
Or how the hosts of hell defeat, 
Had suffering saints no mercy seat ? " 

^» ^l* ^» ^* ^» 

n There, there on eagles' wings we soar, 
And sin and sense molest no more : 
And heaven comes down, our souls to greet, 
While glory crowns the mercy seat." 

Is it not so, my dear sister ? I know you 
have felt his presence in your soul, time and 
again, whilst bowed at the Mercy Seat. 

Saturday. — I am glad I can again take a 
moment to converse with you, upon my good 
old theme — Jesus and immortal glory. I 
adore God that my unprofitable life has been 
spared to the close of another week ; that I 
have still the disposition to love and serve 
Him. But, dearest sister, I feel so unworthy, 
— in looking back upon my past life, I 
have accomplished but little, if any good. It 
is the greatest desire of my heart to do good, 
but I often feel as though my hands were tied. 
"The spirit is willing, but the flesh ia 
weak. 55 



92 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



To-day, there has been a gloom cast ovei 
my feelings. I know not why it is, — yet I do 
not feel discouraged. My trust is still in 
the living God. I know not that I have 
neglected any of my duties, but there ap- 
pears to be a foreboding of some evil. — I 
feel that I can calmly await my Master's 
will. I have placed my entire cause in His 
hands ; nor will I ever remove it thence. 
"All things," I have no doubt, " shall work 
together for my good." I have had sweet 
peace of mind ; and at times my soul has 
been filled with raptures. I still enjoy a 
degree of peace, although shrouded in 
gloom. But sister, I trust that these clouds 
shall again be dispersed. I have wished 
to-day, that you knew my present feelings, 
but I know that you have not failed to pray 
for me. I look forward, with eager antici- 
pation, to to-morrow morning, trusting that 
God will again disperse the cloud, and that 
we may enjoy a rich feast together, in our 
class. Thank God, dearest sister, we are ■ 
hastening on to that eternal Sablath, where 
we shall have an unending class-meeting. 
Then we shall have to go out no more tc 
contend with an alluring world. Then 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



93 



ciouds shall no more obscure our spiritual 
horizon, but all shall be peace and praise — 
the enduring calm and victory of heaven. 

My dearest sister, how has your soul pros- 
pered this week ? 1 hope to hear that it has 
been one of the happiest weeks you have 
ever enjoyed — that your peace "has flown 
as a river, and that your righteousness has 
been as the waves of the sea. 55 I have been 
flattering myself that some of your spare 
moments, this week, have been devoted to 
unworthy me. I wait with impatience to 
hear from you. You see I have taken you 
at your word, to "waive all formalities." — 
I trust you will do the same. Your letters 
will ever be received with a warm, heart- 
felt welcome. 

iSTow, my dearest sister, to God, to our 
God, I commend you. O, that he . may 
keep you, and make you perfect in every 
good work, to do his will, working in you 
that which is well-pleasing in his sight, 
through Jesus Christ." Dear sister, let us 
"run with patience the race that is set 
before us, looking unto Jesus, the author 
and finisher of our faith, who for the joy 
that was set before him, endured the cross, 



J 



94 THE SACRED HOUR. 

despised the shame, and is set down at the 
right hand of the throne of God. 55 And 
when Jesus comes, he will take us to share 
the joys of immortal glory with him. O, 
that he would sanctify you wholly, — -ever 
prays 

Your faithful and affectionate sister, 

Amelia. 



Sunday, September, 1852. 

Dear Sallie : — I find it very hard to bow 
submissively this morning. I do not know 
that I ever wanted to go to class so much 
as I do now, yet I find it impossible for me 
to do so. It is now ten o'clock ; I am here 
entirely alone, yet in spirit I am with you, 
in the class-room. I have been trying to 
pray that God would give you all a rich 
blessing this morning. I believe that I 
shall not be forgotten by my class-mates. I 
feel that I have an interest in their prayers, 
which is a source of great consolation to 
me. I feel an assurance that at least one 
dear one has supplicated a blessing in my 
behalf. 

There is a heavenly calmness settling 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



93 



over my feelings. I feel much better than I 
did when I retired to pray and commune 
with yon. This longing heart will soon be 
relieved from this world of disappointments, 
and then, with yon, I shall spend an eternal 
Sabbath. It will be delightful to meet to 
part no more. 

You will see by the letter I wrote last 
week, what was the state of my feelings 
during the week, and also, on yesterday. I 
still feel somewhat cast down. I know not 
what Providence is about to do for me or 
my family ; nor is it best, perhaps, that I 
should know now. I will trust in my God. 
I awaited anxiously for this blessed Sabbath 
morning, trusting to get my spiritual 
strength much renewed at class. But in 
this I have been disappointed. To the 
great Author of all good I now look for aid, 
strength and consolation. I hope ere long 
I shall see my spritual heavens brightening. 
****** 

How different do I now feel from what I 
did on last Monday. My soul was then fill- 
ed with rapturous joy. I felt as though I 
could say. 



96 



THE SAOBED HOUR. 



" The promised land, from Pisgah's top 

I novr exult to see : 
My soul is full — 0, glorious hope ! 
Of immortality ! " 

To-day, the language of my heart is, 

" Why, my soul, 0, why depress'd ; 
Anil whence thine anxious fears ? " 

I have had no particular trial or temptation 
but there appears to be deep gloom. Per 
haps it is ail for the best. If life were all 
sunshine we would not know how to appre 
ciate its blessings. It is well to have a 
cloudy day once in a while, and then we 
can better appreciate the sunshine. 

Our church bell is now ringing. That- 
good old bell — how I love to hear it. The 
very sound thereof is music to my soul. 
Alas ! that I cannot obey its call, and re- 
pair to the house of my God. How often 
do I feel, when I hear that Old Bell, lika 
saying, with the Psalmist, "As the hart 
panteth after the water brooks, so panteth 
my soul after thee, God. My soul thirst- 
eth for God, for the living God : when shall 
I come and appear before God." 

Yes, dearest sister, I have seasons of 
mental anguish known alone to God, and 



THE SACRED HOUK. 



9T 



my soul; but then, blessed be his name, I 

can look up to him, and call him, iS Father," 

u God," yes, my God, O, how it calms the 

troubled soul to be permitted to lean upon 

his arm — his all-sufficient arm. 

% # # # * # 

Monday Afternoon. — "Why art thou 
cast down, O my soul, and why art thou 
disquieted within me? Hope thou in God; 
for I shall yet praise him for the help of hi3 
countenance." Hope thou in God. — 
Thanks be to his name, I have trusted in 
him, and now I do praise him for the light 
of his reconciled countenance. He is bet- 
ter than all my fears — why should I ever 
doubt his word. My sky is again clear, 
my soul is filled with rapturous joy. This 
morning I awoke with a calm, sweet peace 
of soul ; but this afternoon my soul is filled 
to overflowing with the presence of my dear 
Jesus. " Jesus, sweetest name to me." 

O ! I was richly blest to-day at our Sa- 
cred Hour. I believe you have been fer- 
vently praying for me. Thank God, it has 
been accepted. "The opening heavens 
around me shine with beams of sacred 
bliss." Praise God! I know you will unite 
1 



98 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



with me to say, "Glory to God in the high- 
est ! " After I arose from prayer, I took up 
my hymn book. The first words that 
caught my eye were the following : 

" Cease, ye pilgrims, cease to mourn : 

Press onward to the prize : 
Soon our Saviour will return 

Triumphant in the skies. 
There well join the heavenly train, 

Welcomed to partake the bliss : 
Fly from sorrow, care and pain, 

To realms of endless bliss." 

Thanks be to God, there sin shall nev 
er annoy, — tears shall be chased away by 
smiles of joy,— prayer end in praise, and 
faith be changed to perfect sight. 

Saturday. — I rejoice, dearest sister, that 
I can converse awhile with yon, although it 
is by the means of paper, pen and ink. 
Would that I had the privilege, this morn- 
ing, of speaking face to face with you. I 
long to hear from you again — how you are 
enjoying yourself in the divine life. Are 
you basking in the smile of a Saviour's love ? 
Are you drinking deep from the fountain- 
head? Happy! happy soul! if you are 

thus drinking. God grant that you 

may ever have an unclouded sky. But, 
dearest sister, should clouds arise do not ha 



THE SACRED HOUB. 



99 



discouraged: trust in God, and light shall 
spring up again. This I have proved, time 
and again, by my own experience. 

I cannot say that this has been a week of 
uninterrupted peace: at times my soul has 
been happy ! happy ! ! and again I have 

felt somewhat gloomy, 

****** 

I am very glad that to-morrow is the Sab* 
bath. O, this week has appeared long, — but 
I trust I shall have the privilege of meeting 
with you in class, to-morrow morning. 
To me this is a dear privilege. I know 
not how I could do without my class; this 
means of grace I have ever found to be a 
blessing, and it is a matter of astonishment 
to me how any one can wilfully neglect it. 
I always feel that I lose much by being ab- 
sent even one Sabbath. I have never, 
since I joined the church, absented myself 
from this means of grace, when it was at 
all possible for me to go ; and when de- 
prived of it, I have always felt that I could 
claim a blessing at home. I have expe- 
rienced many, many precious ones at that 



i-OFC. 



100 THE SACKED HOUR. 

hour, when absent from you. I am much 
attached to my class-mates. 

###### 
I hope I shall be favored with a good, 
long letter from you to-morrow, — I hope 
to hear that you have been greatly blessed, 
and spiritually strengthened, since we last 
met. Have you enjoyed any peculiar bless- 
ings — particularly at our Sacred Hour of 
prayer ? I have felt much strengthened. ] 
have had a spirit of prayer given me this 
week. Although I have not felt at all times 
joyful, yet I have had a strong desire to he 
alone with my God. O sister, let us culti- 
vate a spirit of devotional prayer. 

"0, let us earnest be, 

And never faint in prayer; 
Christ loves our importunity, 

And makes our cause his care." 

* # * * f # 

Your affectionate 

Amelia. 



CHAPTER IV. 



LETTER VIII. 

Piqua, Sept., 1852. 

My Dearest Sister : — How shall I thank 
you for your last favor ? It was a sore trial 
for me to give up the enjoyment of the class- 
room last Sabbath : and to be deprived of 
meeting with you for so long a period was 
still more trying. But thanks be to our God 
— I found he was not confined to the class- 
room alone; but here, in my pleasant home, 
although prostrated on a bed of sickness, I 
felt His presence overshadowing me. My 
whole heart was filled to overflowing with his 
love. It was emphatically a happy day, and 
my affliction seemed a blessing in disguise. 
Everything without bore the impress of beau- 
ty; all created things seemed to rejoice and 
praise God for his never-ending goodness. 

My dearest sister, I feel like joining you 
in praising God for Jieart-felt, experimental 
religion; it makes the soul unspeakably 
happy. Then let us press forward and 
take higher grounds. O, the depths of re- 

101 



102 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



deeming love ! I know there are greater 
attainments to be made in the divine life. 

It is very strange, indeed, that during the 
time you were depressed in spirits, and a 
deep gloom overspread your spiritual hori- 
zon, that I should have also shared the same 
feelings to a great extent. It is even so, — • 
a connecting link seems to bind our hearts 
in one. I felt deeply impressed at the 
time, that you were contending with similar 
feelings; and on comparing your account 
with my experience, I find also, that at the 
same time, the clouds were dispersed. How 
marvellous are all His works, and "His 
ways past finding out." Eternity alone can 
pierce the depths of mystery by which we 
are surrounded. Then shall we know and 
understand what would be impossible for 
us to comprehend here below. 

I have felt at times, this week, that my 

TIME ON EARTH WOULD BE SHORT, — that 

my blood-bought spirit would soon burst 
from its frail tenement of clay, and soar 
to realms of endless day. Death and eterni- 
ty have been themes upon which my mind 
has dwelt much. I can say, when the Mas- 



THE SACKED HO UK. 



103 



ter calls, I am ready. While living I shall 
be devoted to his cause, but if my death 

COULD BE SANCTIFIED TO THE GOOD OF OTHERS, 

I can say, " Thy will, not mine, be done." 
Dear sister, you know my resolution — liv- 
ing or dying I am the Lord's. 

Thursday Afternoon. — I have just had 
a rich feast, during our Sacked Hour for 
prayer. My faith was never stronger. 
Heaven seemed just in view, and I felt as 
though borne aloft, almost to the throne of 
God. My soul is happy, but you know, 
dearest sister, lan°Tiao;e falls far short — when 
such a blessing is experienced, I cannot 
tell you. but 1 can feel it. 

I feel assured you have been praying for 
me. All day my heart has been lifted up to 
God in prayer ; my affections are weaning 
from the world, with all its allurements, 
and are daily becoming more supremely 
centered upon God. I have never expe- 
rienced such pure joy and peace, as during 
our Sacked Hour. I rejoice to tell you 
that I have and still do receive great bless- 
ings. My Saviour is very precious — I tee] 
his presence in my heart nov\ and [ know 



104 



THE SACRED HOUK. 



I will still continue to enjoy his love, if I 
prove faithful to the grace already given, 
and 44 onward urge my way." 1 often, yes, 
very often, compare my happy lot with those 
of my dear brethren and sisters who do not 
receive as great encouragement. — I have a 
praying sister — a devoted christian — and 
pious mother, and godly father, a warm cir- 
cle of youthful friends j who are all with me 
— ;; in this band ! Hallelujah !" But above ail 
these, I prize most your valuable letters, 
upon which I have feasted, time and again. 
I have read and re-read them, and am al- 
ways blest in their perusal. Last Sabbath 
your kind favors, sent by Jenny, came to 
my sick room like angels of mercy. Why 
/ almost felt well. Then do not despair, 
my dear sister, about "your hands being 
tied.' 5 I know more than you ever im- 
agined about "your infueneeheing felt*' in 
the class-room, among my associates. My 
own dearest sister, if you will not think I 
am flattering you. I will tell you — that re- 
peatedly I have heard them speak of being 
blessed by the recital of your experience. 
They feel refreshed and encouraged by your 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



105 



example, as well as your timely remarks. I 
have asked several of them if they thought 
we could spare you to join another class, — 
they are all of the opinion that we cannot 
spare you under any circumstances. 
###### 

It rejoices my heart to hear of your great 
blessings at home, and I assure you I often 
feel as though I should like to see you face 
to face, and participate with you, in the en- 
joyment of these rich baptisms. I also feel 
like I should dearly love to be with you in 
seasons of gloom, when the heart longs for 
Borne one to whom it can unburden its griefs. 

Dearest sister, in your hours of deepest 
anguish, when God alone knows the bitter- 
ness of soul which you experience, remem- 
ber there is one earthly friend in whom you 
can place implicit confidence. Best assured, 
my warmest, heart-felt prayers ascend in 
your behalf, and if I can, in any way, 
promote your happiness, — you know where 

to come. I can but point to 

God — our God. He is a present help in ev- 
ery time of trouble. May you ever look to 
him for support and direction, — he will 



106 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



deliver yon. Be strong in faith. "Fear 
not, I am with thee thy troubles to bless, 
and sanctify to thee thy deepest distress." 
Look up, and realize the promise, and your 
sky will be unclouded. Praise the Lord! 

Saturday Morning. — The language of 
my heart this morning is, 

"Present we still in spirit are, 

And intimately nigh, 
While on the wings of faith and prayer, 

We to each other jly. " 

Dearest sister, I rejoice this morning, in 
the prospect of being one week nearer to 
heaven and immortal glory. How is it 
with you? But I know your language is, 
4 1 am bound for the land of Canaan." I 
hope you have made great progress this 
week. I long to hear from you. 

I feel as though I could pray constantly. 
I have never enjoyed that privilege more 
than at this time. I have overcome strong 
temptations, through prayer, and have been 
enabled to walk close with my Jesus. 

"0, let thy sacred presence fill 
And set my longing spirit free, 

Which pants to have no other will 
But night and day to feast on thee." 

On Thursday night we had one of the 



THE SACKED HOtJB. 



107 



best meetings, — I wish you had been with 
us. The membership is beginning to be 
warmed up, and the loud Aniens that went 
np with every prayer denoted feeling. Ev- 
ery one came praying, and it was a good 
time. O that the Lord would give us, as a 
Church, a greater hungering and thirsting 
after righteousness. I hope the work of 
holiness will spread from heart to heart, till 
all shall catch the flame. 

I must not forget to tell you what good 
female prayer meetings we have at Sister 
Kennoms, near our house. Yesterday we 
had a very good time. It meets every Fri- 
day, at three o'clock. I do hope you will 
get an opportunity to come and go with us. 
The meetings are held at Sister Kennon's 
on account of the poor health of her daugh- 
ter Jane. She has not been able to be out 
to any of the means of grace for several 
months. Ton must not scold me when I 
tell you I took the privilege of reading your 
last letter to- her — she was so hungry for 
anything relating to God or his people. If 
I have done wrong, I hope you will forgive 
me, and I will not transgress again ; but it 



108 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



proved such a blessing to her, — I wish you 
only knew her. 

Saturday Evening. — My Dear Sister, 
how I long to take you in my arms this 
evening, and hear from your own lips the 
many joys and happy seasons you have en- 
joyed. But yet there are many of 

your brethren and sisters who, if they could 
exchange places, might be made better 
christians. Often those who have severe 
trials are led to pray more, and to look 
more to Jesus, the author of our faith, and 
less to themselves. 

My dearest sister, often the inquiry bursts 
from your warm heart, " would that now I 
could ask you, face to face, how are you pro- 
gressing ? " "Well, in reviewing the past 
week, I can say, I have been making some 
advancement. I earnestly hope ere anoth- 
er Saturday night rolls around, ] shall 
be able to testify that the blood, of Jesus 
Christ cleanseth from all sin. — I know 
your unceasing prayer has gone up in my 
behalf. I have felt as though I could hear 
you breathing out from the depth of your 
soul, petitions which, I feel assured, will be 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



109 



answered. God grant that my unbelieving 
heart may soon feel the joys of full and 
free salvation. Salvation is a theme upon 
which I am always deeply interested, and 
one I love above all others ; nor would I see 
you ever choose any other in addressing me. 

Our opinions with regard to mingling 
with the society of the world, are one and 
the same. We are employed in our leisure 
moments, too. in the same occupations. My 
sentiments are entirely changed with respect 
to company. I now love what I once 
hated ; I enjoy religious society, but have 
no relish for any other. The world, has no 
place in my affections now, nor does its al- 
lurements charm me ; but sometimes I am 
unavoidably compelled to mingle more or 
less with it 3 and I always strive to be in 
a spirit of watchfulness and prayer, and by 
example, persuade others to seek the Saviour 
with their whole hearts. 

Ah ! yes. another thing. In reading your 
letters to my sick friend I shall always 
omit anything confidential. Being govern- 
ed by the Golden Rule, "to do as 1 
would be done by at all times/' so you need 



110 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



never fear on that score. I should not 
have taken the liberty, but your sweet 
letters have always proved such a blessing 
to my unworthy soul, I thought they might 

benefit her also. 

Sabbath MoenincJ. — Here I am again 
before you on this delightful morning. 
Once more we look forward, with joyous an- 
ticipations, to the class-room, where we 
meet each other and our precious Saviour. 
O, what would life be without the Sabbath 
— sweet day of rest, and sanctuary privi- 
• leges ! O, I earnestly pray we may have 
the test class-meeting we have ever had. 
May the prayer of every heart be, 

" Come and possess me whole, 

Ivor hence again remove : 
Settle smdjix my wavering soul, 

With all thy weight of love. 

i( My one desire be this, — 

Thy only love to know; 
To seek and taste no other bliss 

No other good below." 

Our new minister has come, and will 
preach, I suppose. His name isThurber; I 
hope he will be in favor with God and 
man ; but most of all I hope he may be a 
strong advocate for holiness. O, I do wish 
you could hear him to-day. but I know you 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



Ill 



will receive a blessing at home 

Sister Jenny says she hopes still to have 
an interest in your prayers. She is still 
pressing forward to the land of perfect holi- 
ness, and will never give up until she ob- 
tains the blessing. 

I shall look anxiously for another one of 
your good, heart-cheering epistles. Eterni- 
ty only will reveal to you the great blessings 
they have been to me 

And now to our God will I commit you, 
knowing u He doeth all things well." O, 
may your path grow brighter and brighter, 
to the perfect day; may all that take know- 
ledge of you know you have been with Je- 
sus, and glorify God for the great grace he 
has manifested unto you. And now, dear- 
est sister, adieu, for the present. 

Your affectionate 

Sallie. 



LETTER IX. 



Piqua, Sept., 1852. 
My Deak Sister: — With feelings of un- 
speakable joy I now write you. With 
great delight I have perused and r^-perused 
your last letter. I have long wished to 
clasp you to my heart, and tell you the joy 
with which it filled my soul. My fondest 
hopes in your behalf shall yet be realized. 
These hopes I have been cherishing and 
praying for, since I first met you in the class- 
room. Thanks be to God! my prayers 
have not all ascended in vain. Do you 
think, dearest, I could now cease to pray for 
you? No, never! never! O, that God 
would strengthen your heart, — grant you 
wisdom from on high, that you may be en- 
abled to carry out the 66 fixed purpose" of 
your heart. I believe you shall be the in- 
strument, in his hands, of doing much good, 
• — I feel it in my soul, and have often felt it, 
whilst pleading in your behalf. I rejoice 
that you have such a fixed determination 
not to rest satisfied until you attain entire 

112 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



113 



holiness of heart. Sister, the day of our 
redemption draweth nigh, but one thing 
thou laekest — Faith. Dearest sister, we 
want more faith, — 0, with you I can say, 
; 'Lord, increase our faith." 

What shall 1 tell you in regard to my at- 
tainments? I have felt, at times, as though 
I could almost gray) the prize, — but 0, this 
unbelieving heart — how loath to let me 
enter in and take possession of my rest. You 
are right, — I know it, I feel it, — I do lack 
faith. Yet I feel that my faith is becoming 
stronger, and my determination is to press 
on, through whatever may oppose, until I 
attain it. I at one time enjoyed a foretaste 
of this blessing, but unbelief robbed me of 
my confidence. O, you know not what a 
source of encouragement it is to me, to 
know that I have your prayers, — that we 
can and do retire at the same Sacked 
Hour, and that our prayers go up unitedly. 
My prayer is that you may soon testify to 
all around that Jesus can cleanse from all 
sin. O, let us pray with more faith, and 
the holy fire will come down and consume 
our sacrifice. There is no telling how much 
good we can or may yet accomplish. Have 
8 



114 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



we not reason for encouragement? O, J 
have long felt a desire to do some good, and 
perhaps God has directed this means to re- 
sult in some glorious display of his grace 
that we have not now even any conception 
of. I feel greatly strengthened by your 
kind and interesting letters. 

%%%%%% 
I can say, with you, " I have a longing 
desire to be a working Christian, 55 — but my 
hands are tied. As to temporal things, I al- 
so have everything that heart could wish; 
but alas ! these cannot satisfy the cravings 
of a hungry soul, — >one who is hungering 
and thirsting after that mind that was in 
Christ Jesus. I feel that this world, with 
all its gaudy scenes, and glittering wealth, 
are but "vanity and vexation of spirit. 55 1 
feel that I should be willing to be poor, de- 
spised, or what not, could I but be a worker 
in the vineyard of my Master. O, that 
there was some way opened for me to do 
good. Once there was a door opened for 
me, but I entered not in. Well, perhap? 
God is leading me by a way that I kno^ 

not But my heart shall ever ba 

with you in your labors of love^ — my un- 



THE SACRED HOUE. 



115 



ceasing prayer shall besiege the throne in 
your behalf. O, that you may go forth 
"unspotted, 5 ' and cleansed in that purple 
stream that flowed from Emanuel's side. 

Monday, half-past two o'clock. — Glory! 
Glory ! ! Glory ! ! ! God does reign, supreme 
just noiv, within this heart of mine. Nev- 
er, never did I receive such a blessing as I 
have received on this day. O, what an 
hour of rapturous joy ! Sister, dearest Sis- 
ter, I can now say, 

M *T is done : thou dost this moment save — 

With full salvation bless ; 
Redemption through thy blood I have, 

And spotless love and peace." 

O, I am happy ! happy! — inexpressibly so, 
just now. I feel that God has accepted my 
sacrifice. I have felt the efficacy of his all- 
atoning blood applied to my soul. I have 
had strong faith given me, — I have felt all 
day a spirit of prayer, and when our Sa- 
cked Hour came round, I felt a sweet 
yielding to the w T ill of my God. I had 
scarcely kneeled down till I felt overshad- 
owed with the beams of a Saviour's love. 
It appeared as though some one had spoken 



116 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



audibly, and said, "According to thy faith 
it shall he done unto thee." I instantly 
cried, " Lord, I do believe: help thou my 
unbelief" O,. sister, the "power" came 
down. Why was it that I doubted so 
long? Why have I been halting so long? 
I was not willing to believe that God would 
accept my sacrifice. But glory! glory!! 
to God, how much better is He than all our 
fears. Dearest sister, would that I could see 
you, to tell you how unspeakably happy I 
am. My prayer now is, that you too may 
enter into your rest. O, how I long to 
clasp you in the bonds of perfect love. 
Come and plunge into the all-healing 
stream, and you shall be free indeed from 
all the defilements of sin. 

I now feel that God has been gradually 
bringing me into this rest. For the last six 
weeks my feelings have been different from 
what they ever have been heretofore. But 
O, how much my joys, my hopes, transcend 
everything heretofore experienced. I feel 
as though I was bathing in an ocean of 
love. Such a sweet peace as 1 cannot de- 
scribe fills my soul. I feel a sweet assu- 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



117 



ranee that all sin is cast out, — that Gocl has 
entered my heart, not as a transient visitor, 
but to dwell, to reign, and to rule. Praise 
the Lord ! O, will you not join me in as- 
scribing praise, yes, loud Hallelujahs to his 
name? O, when I think of the goodness of 
God to my poor soul, I am " lost in won- 
der, love and praise/' What an unworthy 
servant I have been, — and how unfaithful. 
How often have I grieved God's holy spirit, 
— yet he has borne with me, times without 
number, and now he does most graciously 
bless me. But it is all of " grace" free, un- 
merited grace. Glory ! Glory to God, in the 
highest, for the riches of his grace. I want 
you to experience for yourself this rich 
blessing. I cannot tell its length, its 
breadth, its heighth, its depth; no, no, lan- 
guage falls far short of unfolding its glories. 
When our happy spirits meet and hold sweet 
converse up yonder in our Father's house, 
then will I tell you all about it. Thank 
God, then these "lisping, stammering 
tongues" will be set at liberty. How 
we shall then tell of our joys and triumphs. 
Can I say, or can I do anything more to 



118 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



encourage you in this way? Sallie, my 
heart flows out to you with emotions of en- 
dearing love, and I feel that I can never 
rest until I can clasp you in the bonds of 
perfect love. You will not think that I am 
too importunate, — no, I feel that our hearts 
are too deeply cemented by the love of our 
most holy religion, to take any thing but in 
kindness spoken by each other, although last 
week old Satan tried hard to get the ad- 
vantage of me, by trying to make me be 
li eve that I had offended you: but thank 
God, it was only a temptation, and you 
need not fear on that score. Your advice 
will ever be joyfully received. Your last 
letter has proved a blessing to me, and, 1 
doubt not, will prove a lasting one. I was 
led fully to see upon what ground I stood. 
I resolved, whilst reading it, that I would 
come to a decided stand, make a full sur- 
render, and then believe, and doubt no 
longer but that God would accept the offer- 
ing. O, thank God, how fully have I real- 
ized it ! Xow, dearest, go and do likewise. 
There is no need of your seeking this bless- 
ing for years. O no, my precious sister. 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



119 



now, even noic, it is your privilege not only 
to seek, but to experience it 

u Faith, mighty faith, the promise sees, 

And looks to that alone ; 
Laughs at impossibilities, 

And cries, it shall be done.'* 

O yes, it is all of grace and mighty faith. 

Now sister, is it not the greatest desire of 
your heart to be free ? Are you not willing 
now, just now, ivhile reading these lines, to 
surrender your all, and look up with faith 
believing. O, that I couldpersuade joujust 
now, to cast your whole burden upon Christ. 
O, my sister, go to him at once, and say you 
will not let him go, until cleansed in his all- 
atoning blood. My prayer to God is, that 
you may feel it applied to your soul, very 
soon. 

Saturday Evening. — I rejoice that I can 
again resume my pen to tell you of God's 
kind dealings with me during this week. It 
has been a week of peace — of unspeakable 
joy, to my poor soul. I think I have never 
spent such a week. Truly I can say, 

" Not a cloud doth arise, 
To darken my skies." 



120 THE SACRED HOUR. 

I have felt constantly like crying out, O, 
"would that he were always thus nigh." 
Then, indeed, there would be u no mortal 
more happy than I." I doubt not but that I 
shall yet have to combat with the powers of 
darkness, yet I feel that sin can have no 
dominion over me. I hope, dearest sister, 
that I shall still have a large share in your 
prayers, — that I may be kept steadfast, 
and be enabled at all times to take up my 
cross, and be a witness, not only that God 
has power on earth to forgive sin, blit to 
cleanse from all unrighteousness. 

To-day the evil one has suggested that I 
had not better say anything about this great 
blessing to-morrow, in class, — that I had 
better wait awhile until I see whether I can 
maintain that confidence that I now pos- 
sess. But, God being my helper, I intend 
to come out bold and decided on this sub- 
ject. 

I have felt at times, during our Sacred 
Hour of prayer this week that you, also, 

were rejoicing in perfect love. ] 

feel that 1 can pray for you in much stronger 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



121 



faith than heretofore. I have just been 
reading over tout last letter. You sav % 

O t, .,7 

u God. only, knows the struggles I have had 
since reading 4 * Faith and its Effeefcs," to 
make a full surrender. 55 Ah, well do 1 re- 
member, what struggles I had when I first 
read that book. My duty appeared so plain 
I was. at times, almost tempted to wish I 
had never seen it. But, thanks be to God, 
I was enabled to overcome, by the blood of 
Christ, and 0, how highly I prize it now. 
It stands high in my estimation. I have just 
sent to Cincinnati for another copy of it. I 
wish it was more generally read and appre- 
ciated. There is another work by 

the same author, which I want to procure for 
you, if lean get it — "The way of Holiness. 55 
Dearest sister, my whole being is so absorb- 
ed in this subject that I feel I cannot get 
light enough. I have felt a long- 

ing to be alone with mv God. I have had 
some most precious seasons during our Sa- 
cred Hour. How I thank God, this even- 
ing, that we ever set an hour to retire to 
pray, and I trust it will be a long time, 



122 THE SACKED HOUE. 

ere we shall forget that hour, and the many 
precious seasons we have had whilst bow- 
ed at the Mercy Seat. 

% % % # # # 
Your sister in the bonds of perfect love^ 

Amelia. 



LETTER X. 



Piqua, Monday Afternoon, Sept., '52. 

u Our souls, by love, together knit, 

Cemented, mixed in one ; 
One hope, one heart, one mind, one voice, 

'T is heaven on earth begun. 
Our hearts have burned, while Jesus spoke, 

And glowed with holy fire: 
He stopped and talked, and fed and blessed, 

And filled the enlarged desire." 

My -Precious Sister: — I cannot describe 
my feelings to-day and yesterday. Since 
your clear, bright and happy testimony that 
"Jesus' blood cleansethfrom all sin" I have 
firmly resolved to come to a decided stand 
— to make a lull surrender at our Sacred 
Hour for prayer. All this day my heart 
has been breathing most earnest, sincere, and 
fervent petitions for guidance and direction. 
I have dedicated myself to God, and now 
wait for the witness of my acceptance. 
It is the greatest desire of my poor heart to 
give up all. If I have withheld anything 
I do not know it. The promise here meets 
me, — "if in anything ye be otherwise 

123 



124 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



minded, God shall reveal even this unto 
you" and " He is not slack concerning his 
promises, as some men count slackness/' I 
find my feelings are very peaceful and tran- 
quil since I have been more earnestly en- 
gaged. I am anxious to plunge yet deeper 
in the all-lualing stream, and feel his all- 
atoning blood applied to my unworthy, 
longing soul. It is now the language of 
my heart, 

" Enter thyself, and cast out sin ; 

Thy boundless purity bestow : 
Touch me, and make the leper clean, 

Wash ine, and I am white as snow, 

" Sprinkle me, Saviour, with thy blood, 

And all thy gentleness is mine ; 
And plunge me in the purple flood, 

Till all I am is lost in thine." 

This sweet verse expresses my desire, at this 
time. 

My dear sister, there is a "door opened" 
in our sacred class room for you to be use- 
ful. I hope you will never cease to urge 
our class-mates to seek, and seek earnestly, 
till they obtain this inestimable blessing. 
0, that I could just now feel it, in my own 
poor heart. 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



125 



Saturday Morning. — Another week is 
coming to a close, never to be recalled. 
What have I accomplished for myself, or 
for the good of those around me ? What 
record shall be brought against me in that 
day, when the Son of Man shall come to 
judge the quick and dead ? Have I im- 
proved every opportunity to warn those 
around me to repent, and believe on the 
Son of God ? Such are a few of the reflec- 
tions that have occupied my mind this 
morning ; and in view of such questions of 
self-examination, a deep sense of my un- 
worthiness and unfaithfulness, and what is 
worse, I fear, unprofitableness , rises up 
against me. I have this abiding conscious- 
ness, that I have tried to do my duty, in 
every particular. 

This has been a week of great joy, espe- 
cially Sunday, Monday and Tuesday: but 
on Wednesday and Thursday it seemed as 
though Satan was about to sift me as wheat. 
I have had some sore conflicts with the en- 
my, and expect he will renew his attacks, 
while I am seeking to be cleansed and pu- 
rified. He knows too well that holiness is a 



126 



THE SACKED HO UK. 



strong engine, when brought to bear on his 
forces. But, Glory to God,, we shall come 
off more than conquerors if we move for- 
ward in the strength of Jesus* name. It is 
my daily prayer that our membership may 
take a higher stand, and keep it. O, that 
we were all more zealous in the cause of 
our blessed Master. There were a few in 
our " speaking meeting" that seem con- 
vinced of their duty to live closer to God. 
May he strengthen and increase those de- 
sires continually. My cry by night and 
day is, 

" let thy sacred presence fill, 
And set my longing spirit free; 

Which pants to have no other -will, 
But night and day to feast on thee." 

On Thursday night, at prayer meeting, 
after battling with the enemy, I received a 
great blessing; the clouds were all dis- 
persed, and the gloom chased away, and I 
came home rejoicing in God, the rock of 
my salvation. Since then, my peace has 
tlowed as a river. The precious Saviour 
will never forsake those who put their trust 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



127 



in him. He is always ready to deliver in 
times of trouble and temptation. 

I long to enjoy with you the blessing of 
perfect love. I feel now that I can never 
rest until I obtain it. Dearest sister, I am 
fearful that I may become discouraged and 
give up seeking. I cannot center my 
thoughts on God supremely ; something will 
come in and distract my mind. O, if I 
could always feel that " hungering and 
thirsting after righteousness n I did on Mon* 
day and Tuesday last, then I know I should 
soon be in the possession of the blessing of 
sanctification. Dearest sister, your prayers, 
that have ascended in my behalf, I have 
deeply felt. It seems as though our spirits 
often hold sweet converse together. You 
know not how much it encourages me, to 
feel and know that you so often besiege 
a throne of grace for poor, unworthy me. 
I hope God will strengthen and enable you 
at all times, to witness, that "his blood 
cleanseth from all sin" 

I am glad that you did not falter to do 
your duty, last Sabbath. Had the enemy 
prevailed over you, your enjoyments would 



128 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



have fled. Press forward: there are still 
greater attainments for yon, — I am con 
vineed there is a wide field of usefulness 
open before yon. You will, in the provi- 
dence of God, be the means of inducing 
many others to make a full surrender. I 
hope the time is not far distant when I can 
join you in this soul-inspiring work. O, it 
is a work an angel might covet. Praise 
God, it is for those whom he has redeemed 
to engage in it : — if we are willing, we can 
do a little toward bringing about that hap- 
py period, "when the knowledge of the 
Lord shall cover the earth." 

# # # # # * 

You remember I spoke in my last of be- 
ing thrown into the circle of the gay and 
fashionable; but Conscience whispered, yon 
are doing wrong. But I was urged to go by 
the usual motives, — " your friends are there, 
and even some Methodists, and their feel- 
ings will be hurt if you remain at home," 
etc., etc. I listened to the tempter, and 
yielded, though not from any expectation ot 
enjoyment. Bitterly and keenly I have suf- 
fered from the stings of a guilty conscience 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



129 



ever since, and now, I am resolved this 
shall he the last. God being my helper, I 
will hereafter refuse all such invitations. 
Bro. 0., in his exhortation to me, said, " we 

ought to be self -denying P It 

would have been no part of self-denial for 
me to have remained at home, I assure you. 
Sabbath Morning. — 

" Welcome, delightful morn, 

Thou day of sacred rest ! 
I hail thv kind return ! 

Lord make these moments blest." 

"From the low train of mortal toys, 
I soar to reach immortal joys." 

O, what a rich blessing is the Sabbath, 
with all its privileges, — " Emblem of eter- 
nal rest." But to none of its blessings do 
I look forward w 7 ith happier anticipations 
than to the class-room. Shall I meet you 
there? I shall be sadly disappointed if I 
do not. 

I have neglected to mention that two 
more are added to our little band, at half- 
past one, to seek for purity of heart. 
****** 

I have tried to urge a few of my brothers 

and sisters to seek sanctification, — but they 
9 



'4 



130 



THE SACKED HOUK. 



think it is too great an attainment for theirs 
Well, good old Wesley would not call sucb 
Methodists^ I fear, were he to rise from his 
grave. 

###### 
May heaven's richest blessings rest npon 
you, my dearest, beloved sister in Christ. 

Your affectionate 

Sallie. 



LETTER XI. 



Piqua, Monday Morning, Sept., '52. 
My Dear Sister : — With great delight I 
sieze a moment to converse awhile with you. 
Precious, inestimable blessing it is to me, 
to talk on the glorious theme of religion, 
— full and free salvation. I know this is 
a theme which you also love above all 
others. 

How is my dearest sister this morning ? 
Is she rejoicing on the mountain top — or is 
she down in the valley ? I know not why 
it is that I have felt you were cast down. 
Was not last night an agonizing night 
with you? I felt much drawn out in pray- 
er on your behalf. From nine o'clock 
until midnight, my unceasing prayer went 
up for you. I felt as though you were dis- 
tressed in soul. I wished that I could be 
with you, — I thought perchance I might be 
of some service to you. I know the tin- 
worthiest are sometimes made instruments, 
in the hands of God, of strengthening 

131 



132 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



others. When you write, tell me what were 
your feelings during that time. Can it be 
possible that our hearts are so united that 
we can feel each others burdens though 
unexpressed? I was forcibly impressed by 
your remarks on that subject. It appears, 
at least, that our hearts and souls have been 
deeply impressed alike. You spoke of your 
feelings last week, dwelling so much upon 
death and eternity. Dearest sister, I was 
never more deeply impressed upon this sub- 
ject. I feel that my time on earth will he 
short. I am daily, yea, hourly, admonish- 
ed of this. I am endeavoring "to set my 
house in order/' that when the Master 
comes, I may be ready. I can truly say 
with you. that whether living or dying, 1 
am Christ's. My beloved sister, I have 
thought what a blessed privilege it would 
be, could our souls both at once burst from 
these poor tenements of clay, and enter, to- 
gether, that bright world above, and at once 
be permitted to gaze upon that dear Saviour, 
who has shed his precious blood, to purchase 
our pardon, and complete redemption, Hal- 
lelujah! Hallelujah! to his name. But 



THE SACRED HOUR. 133 

God knows what is best for us, and he will 
do all things well. Therefore, let us bow 
submissively to His will. Howc<m I suffi- 
ciently thank you, for your last favor. 
Truly, dearest, they are as angel visits. How 
grateful I feel for that sweet, sisterly affec- 
tion which you have manifested in my be- 
half. It has sunk deep into my heart. I 
can place implicit confidence in you, — I 
know such a friend is a treasure, and not 
every day to be found. 

I heard you had a good time on Friday 
last, at Female prayer meeting. I doubt 
not but you enjoyed it. To bear the cross is 
the way to secure the blessing. I have al- 
ways found in my short experience, that the 
harder the cross, the greater the blessing. 
Never shun the cross, but in the strength of 
your divine Master bear it. You will find 
yourself much strengthened by so doing. 
You do not know how much it rejoiced my 
poor heart, to hear that you were willing to 
bear the cross, — that you do not refuse to 
take it up, like many of our old professors, 
in the church. No wonder there are so 
many cold hearted professors in Zion. God 



134 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



will iiever honor those who do not deny 
themselves, — come out boldly, and take 
up his cross, fearless of the world. Always 
be found ready to take up your cross, and 
God will abundantly bless you. 

Tuesday Morning. — O, how unspeakably 
happy I am this morning. Praise the Lord 
O, my soul ! * # * * f 
* * Yesterday my soul was continu- 
ally drawn out in prayer to God in your be- 
half. At our Sacred Hour I wrestled hard, 
but I could not feel any assurance but that 
you were still cast down. I feared that in 
the anguish of your soul in seeking higher 
attainments, you had lost sight of the great 
blessings you have enjoyed. Last night I 
felt that 1 could not retire until I received 
the assurance that you were happy in the 
love of God. About half-past eight 
o'clock I retired to my sacred retreat, de- 
termined that I would not give up until 1 
received that assurance. What a blessed 
liour! My soul was filled to overflowing, 
and I was enabled to shout aloud the high 
praises of my precious Jesus. I felt, also, 
that God had blest you, and I had assur- 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



135 



auce given me that you had at last received 
a blessing, if not yet made entirely f ree. — 
Dearest Sister, was it not so? I have 
nothing to judge by but my own feelings. 

This morning I awoke with mv soul Ml 
of Glory and of God. Where or how can 
I begin to tell of his unspeakable goodness? 
I have a great desire to see you, and 
to know just how you feel. Are you 
still panting after that " pe?fect * love 
that casts out all fear? 55 or have you been 
permitted to enter into your rest ? If not, 
press forward. O, what is it that keeps 
you back? Is it unbelief? — a spirit of 
doubting? Can you not trust your all, all, 
in the hands of God ? Do you doubt his 
ability to save you from sin? O, I well 
know how hard it is to believe that our 
wicked hearts can ever cease from sin — 
that they can be cleansed. I am astonished 
that God did not cut me off for my unbe- 
lief; but O what amazing mercy has been 
shown me ! — and then to permit me to enter 
and feast on love divine ! I know that I 
am not worthy to be permitted to eat of the 
crumbs that fall from my Master's table; 



136 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



yet, Hallelujah to his name! he has per 
mitted me to feast on the choicest viands. — 
Wondrous love! Redeeming love! Its 
heights and depths Eternity alone can 
fathom. 

Do yon think, dearest sister, that I am 
satisfied with my present attainments ? No ! 
never, never shall 1 be satisfied until I shall 
awake up in his likeness, and be permitted 
to gaze with rapturous awe upon him who 
has purchased my complete redemption. — 
Then shall 1 he satisfied. But I cannot 
eat my morsel alone. I want others to en- 
joy with me this rich experience. I be- 
lieve that God will accept your sacrifice. O 
could I say or do anything to help you on, I 
would gladly do it. I feel that no sacrifice 
that I could make would be too much, if I 
could but aid you. But one thing I prom- 
ise you— you have my unceasing prayers. I 
believe that God will hear me, and that my 
prayers shall be answered in your behalf. Be 
not discouraged, dearest sister, if you are 
not at once brought into this rest. I am 
assured that you shall be gradually brought 
into it. Sister, dearest, be sure you come 



THE SACRED HOCK. 



137 



out at once, and boldly take up your cross 
as a witness for Christ. If you do not, Sa- 
tan will soon rob you of your confidence. I 
feel that I have gained much by doing so on 
Sabbath, although it was a severe trial. Sa- 
tan tried hard to get the advantage of me. I 
at first thought I would not go to class, and 
I had a veiy plausible excuse to keep me 
from going; yet I determined, in the 
strength of God, that I would go, and take 
up my cross. I was blest in so doing. — 
Glory be to God! I have been enabled to 
maintain my confidence. 

Xow, dear sister, "shall I scold you?' 3 
Well, I do not feel in the right kind of 
spirit to scold much, just now. My letters 
are so imperfect, — the spontaneous effusions 
of my heart at the time, and are not even 
corrected, but I have great confidence in you, 
and know you will overlook their errors. 
I have never thought that my poor letters 
would be of interest to any one but your- 
self. I will leave it to your judgement. I 
feel it is not my duty to withhold anything 
that would prove a blessing to others, or be 



138 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



the means of stimulating them in my Mas- 
ter's cause. 

Wednesday Noon. — 1 again steal away 
from my domestic duties to converse a while 
with you. Eternity alone can tell how 1 
prize this privilege. I feel that I never am 
happier than when in secret with my God, 

and writing . To each, I can pour out 

the fulness of my heart, and know that I 
meet with no repulse. God is ever ready to 
listen to my complaints, to soothe and calm 
my fears ; and in you, dear sister, I know 
I have a friend that will bear with me, 
although I may be troublesome. But, 
dearest, contrast your own happy lot with 
mine, and then you will know what an in- 
estimable privilege this is. I have no one 
to whom I can go and tell the fulness of 
my soul on religious subjects. I have no 
one to take me by the hand and encourage 
me on my way. But I dare not complain ; 
God is good. He does more for me, much 
more, than I deserve ; and this morning my 
soul is filled to overflowing with his love. 

I feel much weaned from the 

world ; my mind appears entirely absorbed 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



139 



in meditating upon God, Heaven, and im- 
mortal Glory. I thank Gocl for the bright 
and cheering evidence vre have of meeting 
at last on the sunny banks of deliverance, 
where we shall have nothing to intrude to 

mar our happiness. 

****** 

Your affectionate 

Amelia. 



CHAPTEE V. 



LETTER XII. 

Sept., 27th, 1852. 
My Dear Sister Amelia: — Our preci- 
ous season for prayer has just passed. I 
have tried hard to give all into the hands 
of my blessed Jesus, and to believe it was 
accepted. • • • • I have had my soul, this 
afternoon, filled with a holy calmness and 
peace, which is indeed refreshing after buf- 
feting the fierce waves of temptation; — 
but now, glory to God, I can say and feel 
that Jesus stands at the helm. "What a 
rich feast we had in our class-room! It 
was never more solemn to me, and now, as 
it comes up before my mind, it seems in- 
deed like a little heaven on earth. All the 
brethren and sisters seemed to have the 
fire burning upon the altar of their hearts. 
I love all my class-mates dearly, and I know 
it will never be a cross for me to attend 
upon that most precious means of grace. — 
But should you, in the providence of God, 
be taken soon to that great class-meeting 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



141 



above, I fear my poor murmuring heart 
would rebel : and yet I shall soon be with 
you. Life is short, and it matters but lit- 
tle which is taken first. I can join you in 
wishing we might together ascend to the 
city of the New J erusalem, and there first 
mingle our loud anthems before our Sa- 
viour's throne. Then our harps will be 
tuned to the sweet melodies of heaven. 

My spirit, this afternoon, would fain 
catch the strain of a dying Saviour s love, as 
it is borne on the passing breeze. Hallelu- 
jah! Glory! Just now what a blessing 
has been poured upon my panting, longing 
heart ! I would that I could clasp you to 
my heart and tell you ; but no, I cannot. 
Thanks be to God for his unspeakable gift. 

Wednesday Afternoon. — You enquire, 
was I Ji not much cast down and distressed 
in soul on Sunday evening?" I answer, 
yes. I never had a more agonizing spirit 
of prayer than at that time, and also on 
Monday and Tuesday I was continually en- 
gaged. On Monday, at our Sacred Hour, 
my heart seemed to find increasing delight 
in prayer ; my faith grew stronger, and I 



142 



THE SACRED HOUR- 



think I have not been as near realizing the 
blessing since. I know could I only have 
claimed the promises in faith, I should have 
been made Holy, but, ah ! when shall this 
wavering heart be at rest ? 

"Courage, my soul, on God rely, 
Deliverance soon will come ; 
A thousand ways has Providence 
To bring believers home." 

My clearest sister, I rejoice that you have 
not forgotten us on Friday afternoons, when 
our little band of sisters meet in the sick 
room to draw near to a throne of grace. I 
do love those social prayer meetings, where 
all restraint is thrown aside, and we re- 
ceive such rich blessings. You can rest 
assured you are not forgotten by me at that 
hour. I hope you will have an opportu- 
nity, ere long, of mingling your prayers 
with ours, and participating with us in this 
rich feast. I know that hearing the cross. 
too, always proves a blessing, when it is 
done cheerfully and in the right spirit. — 
Now, dearest, adieu for the present. 

Thursday Evening, 9 o clock. — Upon re- 
tiring to my room this evening, the thought 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



143 



struck me that I might enjoy the privilege 
of writing a few lines. I have just returned 
from prayer meeting, where we always get 
our spiritual strength renewed when we go 
praying; but, unfortunately for me, company 
came in just at the time when I should have 
gathered in my wandering thoughts. I had 
to go to the house of God in a frame of 
mind not suitable to worship him. O, how 
often I have to lament that 1 am so much 
controlled by circumstances. I would that 
I could at all times \ without distraction of 
mind, bow before God. To lift the heart 
continually to God is certainly one of the 
Christian's dearest privileges. I love to 
hold sweet communion with my Maker. 

To-night, as I cast my eye out of my win- 
dow, what a calm, beautiful scene presents 
itself to my vision. The moon is pour- 
ing a flood of light and beauty on every 
object, and casting a hallowed radiance of 
majesty, glory and sublimity over all the 
works of God. Truly did the sweet singer 
of Israel exclaim, "The heavens declare 
the glory of God ; the firmament showeth 
forth his handiwork." Read the nineteenth 



144 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



Psalm, and then turn your eyes and see the 
beauties, there described, richly displayed 
in the magnificent and ever changing pa- 
norama, the blue canopy of heaven. Worlds 
upon worlds revolving century after century 
in the blue dome above us, with all the har- 
mony and order that characterize his won- 
derful works. 

When you thus contemplate his works, 
you will join with me and say, u O for a heart 
to praise my God." My whole soul now 
goes forth with emotions of gratitude to 
Him who has with such a benificent hand, 
scattered unnumbered blessings around our 
pathway, causing flowers of unearthly beauty 
to spring up to enliven us on our pilgrim- 
age to the skies. After such a view of 
the beauties of Nature, how appropriate 
these words : tc What is man that thou art 
mindful of him, or the son of man that thou 
visitest him ; thou hast made him a little 
lower than the angels, and crowned him 
with glory and honor," etc. • • • • The clock 
strikes ten, and I must bid you good night. 
May God bless you. 

Saturday Afternoon. — Since writing 



THE SACKED HOUR, 



145 



last, when my heart was so completely 
filled with emotions of joy in contemplating 
the beauty displayed in the works of God, 
I have been called to the house of mourn- 
ing, to console the living, and perform the 
las: sail rites for the dead. Many and pro- 
f.zaV.e were my reflections upon f he short- 
ness of life and certainty of death. what 
a glorious hope ice have that, when the 
storms of life are over, we shall then enter 
upon the blissful scenes of immortality ! 0, 
what a happy future awaits us. if faithful ! 

I have again, at our Sacred Hour, found 
our Saviour graciously near. 0. I iievef 
realized so much happiness in my short life 
as I have done since vreset apart this hour, 
I have been greatly blessed at these pre- 
cious seasons, and I can say with you. had 
11 1 ten thousand hearts they should all be 
given to God, and all engaged in the 
blessed work of winning souls to Christ.* 5 
My sister, I trust it will be a long time 
ere that period arrives when we shall forget 
the Sacred Hour. I think we have seen 
the promise often verified. ;% If two of you 
agree on earth as touching anything that 
10 



146 



THE SACRED HO UK. 



they shall ask, it shall be done for them of 
my Father which is in heaven." Yes, our 
great High Priest intercedes for us — "the 
Spirit maketh intercessions for us with groan- 
ings that cannot be utterred." O, then, let 
us still press forward, till death shall end 
the warfare. I have just turned to a sweet 
hymn, which begins — 

" Jesus, united by thy grace, 

And each to each endeared, 
With confidence vre seek thy face, 

And know our prayer is heard." 

My faith was much strengthened at our 
prayer meeting yesterday afternoon. Al- 
though we were few in number, we found 
the Lord there, and that to bless. 0, I 
know not why it is that there is such a 
backwardness on the part of our sisters in 
attending this means of grace. Why should 
we be afraid to bear the cross when we gain 
such great blessings by so doing? I trust 
there will be a " stirring up among the dry 
bones" soon — very soon. If we only liyed 
up to the many precious privileges we en- 
joy, we would consider it no hardship to 
follow Christ through evil report as well as 
good. Kow do not, I beg of you, think 1 



THE SACRED HOUB. 



147 



have reference to von, for I know too well 
how you would do, were it possible: but 
there are many of nay dear friends who are 
so indifferent about the cause of their Mas- 
ter that they cannot spare one hour in a 
week for special prayer. I pray God we 
may, as professing Christians, be more zeal 
ously engaged for the conversion of those 
around us, and, also, that we may never 
rest till we have fulfilled the great com- 
mand, u Be ye holy, as I am holy." 

Your affectionate, 

Sallie. 



LETTER XIII. 



Sabbath, Oct, 22, 1852. 
My Dear Sister : — I want to tell you my 
feelings; but how or where shall I begin? 
Never, no never have I enjoyed such feel- 
ings as I have this day. My heart has 
cried out, " What is the Lord about to ac- 
complish in me or for me? " Then the answer 
came, " Stand still and see the salvation of 
the Lord." O, Sallie, I wish you could just 
have realized my feelings in class this morn- 
ing. Indeed it appeared to me that my 
soul would hurst from its frail tenement of 
clay. When 1 went to class it was impress- 
ed upon my mind to relate a part of my 
past experience, at least this was my inten- 
tion. I thought I would waive the subject 
of Holiness, but my mind was differently led 
out. After we returned into the class room 

from Sister ? s, I felt a sweet spirit of 

prayer given to me, I think my heart nev- 
er went out with such longing desires after 
my God — (?w God. I began to feel a 
148 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



149 



degree of holy nearness to God, which was 
indeed better fdi than expressed. My hap- 
py soul could, without reserve, pour all its 
joys and sorrows, its hopes and fears, into 
the bosom of a reconciled God and Father. 
Thank God, a most powerful blessing was 
poured upon me. Indeed I felt it difficult 
to hold my peace until it came my turn to 
speak. But then I found I could not tell it ! 
I know that when we meet in our Father's 
house I will tell you. I felt completely 
swallowed up in the love of God. O 
Sallie, does not your heart bound in the 
anticipation of being released from every- 
thing of an earthly nature; — then we shall 
be permitted to meet and spend an eternity 
together, where nothing shall disturb our 
peace ! I can say with you, — r% with calm 
and unwavering faith I look forward to my 
release from earth/ 5 

It rejoiced my heart to learn that you, too, 
have been greatly blest lately. It is but the 
dawning of a better day. • • • • I want to 
hear a sermon on the subject of Holiness. I 
am hungry for anything pertaining to that 
subject. I enjoyed Bro. Gaddis's sermon 



150 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



very much. I feel there is a duty devolving 
upon me. I felt it forcibly to-day. I had 
some severe struggles in my own mind, 
after coming home from church. I knew 
not how to decide. I was much strength- 
ened in casting that burden upon the Lord, 
believing that he would direct me aright. — • 
I knew you were blest under the sermon. I 
feel that you are in the path of duty. How 
much good you can accomplish in your la- 
bors in the Sabbath-school! I know you 
will make an impression upon those dear 
little children that shall never be erased 
from their minds. I would say with Bro. 
Gaddis, "go on, go on, go ox! n and would 
to God I could join with you ; — this I will 
do soon if there is a way opened for me. 
God, I know, is about to accomplish some 
mighty work in my behalf — I felt it sen- 
sibly this morning ; but what that work is 
I cannot even conjecture. 

Sabbath Evening. — There! — our good 
old bell is ringing for church. O, what a 
struggle there is in my breast. I have a 
desire to go ; but then you know I must give 
up that privilege. I hope the Holy Spirit 



THE SACKED EOUE. 



151 



may be poured out abundantly upon you all. 
I will lift my heart in ardent prayer for a 
blessing, and particularly for one dear one, 
while she sits under the grateful droppings 
of the sanctuary : and I know that I will 
not be forgotten. I am expecting another 
Dressing before I retire. 

Hobday ^sight. — Dear sister, I have two 
prop ostiums to make, which were suggest- 
ed to me last night in my meditations, and 
I believe impressed on my mind by the 
Holy Spirit. First, that we pursue a regu- 
lar course of reading at ors, Sacred Hour. 
Let us commence in the New Testament at 
Matthew, and read two chapters each hour. 
Let next Monday (provided our lives are 
spared,) be the day to commence. I have 
always found, and I doubt not but you have 
also, that reading portions of the Scriptures 
before prayer, fixes the mind more upon 
God; and I think our minds would thus be 
brought to center more sweetiv together. 
The second proposition is this: that we set 
apart one day each month as a Fast day. 
Let it be a day of self-examination and 
prayer — fervent, ardent prayer, especially 



152 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



for a glorious revival in our church and 
city. Let the first Friday of each month be 
the day. Now, dear sister, will you agree 
with me in this proposition, or something 
similar to it ? Any alteration you see best 
to make I will most cordially accede to. 

I know that the course we have been pur- 
suing has been the means of doing us much 
spiritual good, but I believe we can accom- 
plish yet more. O let us be self-denying, 
cross-bearing Christians, and I believe God 
will own and bless our efforts. I do feel 
that we are called to do some little work in 
the vineyard of our Lord. • • • • We know 
not how much we can accomplish in wrest- 
ling with God in prayer. Let our prayers 
be as good Caughey says — " those that will 
take no denial but follow God up and down, 
as it were, night and day, begging, crying, 
and entreating, and will give him no rest — ■ 
will not let him go, until he says, ' Be it 
unto thee even as thou wilt?" O we may 
accomplish much by our prayers. And now 
what clo you say to all this ? 

Tuesday Night. — Confusion and constant 
uproar has surrounded me to-day. How 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



153 



heartily sick I am of the world. I wished 
to-day that I could retire to some lone 
place, and there, with one dear friend of 
Jesus, hold sweet and uninterrupted con- 
verse. I have found it hard to-day to keep 
my mind fixed ; there has been too much to 
draw it off from that best of all subjects — 
religion and immortal glory. This after- 
noon, however, I did, in a great measure, 
get my wandering mind drawn in, and I 
had a most precious season during our Sa- 
cred Hour. I had great liberty given me 
in praying, particularly for one precious one. 
Sallie, I feel indeed that you are on the 
verge of that boundless sea of love. But 
one step remains to be taken. I pray God 
that you may exercise that faith this week 
that will put you in possession of that bless- 
ing. If I could act in your behalf, this 
moment would end the strife, and you 
should be free. 

But this is out of the order of God; — ■ 
that act of faith must be exercised by you 
alone. God this moment stands ready to 
embrace you in his everlasting arms of 
love. O, how I wish I could remove that 
standing doubt \ for I know there must be 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



one that keeps you back. I wish I was 
with you to-night, that we could have an- 
other long talk, and particularly upon tl.is 
mbjeci. I never felt a greater desire for 
anything in my life than to See you enjoy 
this Messing. I firmly believe I shall yet 
see you in possession of it. *0. I can. and 
do, exercise strong faith in your behalf: yet 
there are so many things suggested to 
ray mind, and they appear so plausible ; — 
but, as good old Caughey says. M There are 
some prayers in which we must put an if," 
and so I find in this I must insert an 
if: yet I will not give up the contest: no, 

indeed — I will pray on . and on. 

% # % # # # 

Have you procured ;i Caugheys Sermons" 
yet? I do want you to get this work by 
all means. I am glad that I have it. It 
certainly is the best work I ever have met 
with, my good Bible excepted. You know 
how I prize ^Faith and its Efectsr "Well, 
this work is equal, if not superior to it. 
How much I want you and your sister Jen- 
ny to read it. There is much benefit to be 
derived from its perusal. There are two 
good chapters on "Entire Sa net Meat ionp 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



155 



These are separate from the sermons, which 
are powerful enough, I assure you. Why 
it appears to me that no one can read these 
chapters without at once entering into that 
rest of faith — every objection appears to be 
met at once, and so clearly pointed out and 
refuted. I have nearly finished reading it; 
and if you have not procured a copy, you 
shall have mine, as I am very anxious for 
you to read it. A friend of mine called to- 
day, and found me very deeply engaged in 
the perusal of it. She wanted to know if I 
had found some interesting novel, I said I 
would to God the world was full of such no- 
vels as that, and that every man, woman 
and child could read them. I think that the 
L)evil and his aids would begin to tremble, 
lest they should get no more subjects to 
people their dark abode. 
• • • • But I must leave you for to-night, as 
the clock strikes. Dearest, adieu. 

Your affectionate 

Amelia. 



LETTEE XIV. 



Piqtja, Monday Morn'g., Oct. 1852. 
Dear Sister : — I steal away from earth's 
dull vanities, its cares and perplexities, to 
spend a few moments in sweet converse 
with you. My soul, this morning, " dwells 
aloof from all created things," and holds 
sweet communion with my God. Ah! 
there is an inner life, and I am permitted, 
to a small extent, to realize what it is iC to 
walk and talk with God" — a heaven-born 
privilege. • • • • Yesterday was indeed a 
feast day to my poor soul. I rejoiced, when 
I returned from class, to learn that you had 
come to a decided stand to lay your all upon 
the altar. It was your privilege, then, to 
receive the witness, but I know what was 
lacking — Faith. You did not exercise 
strong faith. O, that God would bestow 
upon you that faith which lays hold of the 
promise, and will take no denial. I implore 
you not to become discouraged ; remember 
you can do nothing of yourself. Cast youi 
156 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



157 



all at the feet of Jesus, believing that he 
will receive you — that he will acccept your 
sacrifice. The Holy fire will come down 
and consume the least and last remains of 
sin. Before you read these lines I hope yon 
will have entered into your vest. 

****** 

Dear sister, there is no necessity for your 
fears. No, no! The more we seek, the 
nearer we live to God, the greater our en- 
joyments will be. 0, that my God, our 
God would speedily deliver those who are 
now seeking full salvation. I believe that 
the fire of holiness is beginning to burn. 
that it may be kindled into a blase, and that 
many, many hearts may catch the flame ^ 
and proclaim holiness to the Lord of Hosts. 
.... I, too, rejoice that there were a few 
in your speaking meeting who felt the neces- 
sity of seeking a deeper work of grace. "VTa3 
my sister among those witnesses I Xever 
let an opportunity pass by unimproved. 

Wednesday Evening. — I take a moment 
to write, or talk with you. But what shall 
I tell vou? I have but the same old storv; 
but, thank God, I know you will say it is a 



158 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



good one. God still is love. O, how un- 
speakably precious is he to my pocr soul. 
I have felt the value of religion — of Holy 
Ghost religion — this vreek. The cares of 
the world have pressed heavily upon me, 
but, thanks be to God. my mind has been 
kept in " perfect peace.'' I have often com- 
pared the present state of my mind with 
what it was formerly. How easily I was 
thrown off my guard. I would let the 
tempter come in and rob me of my peace. 
I would look at everything on the dark side, 
but this week, so far, I have felt a calm and 
firm reliance on God, although I have had 
much to try me. I found I had an all-suf- 
iicient Saviour. O, praise God ! My dear 
sister, he is ever ready to help in time of 
need I found my Jesus very preci- 

ous to-day at our Sacred Hour. " Blessed 
are they who hunger and thirst after right- 
eousness, for they shall be filled/' I feel 
hourly that u Christ lives in me;' and that I 
u - live by faith in the Son of God." 

By faith in Christ I walk with God, 
Supported by his staff and rod ; 
Though snares and danger throng my path, 
I triumph over all by faith. 



THE SACKED HOUK. 



259 



With heaven my journey's end in view, 
My road is safe and pleasant too, 
And earth and hell my course withstand, 
Guarded by his Almighty hand. 

And now, dear sister, how is it with you ? 
Have you found rest for your soul ? Have 
you been permitted to enter in and feast 
"with Jesus' priests and kings ? " Or is this 
the language of your heart ? — 

" Thy secret voice invites me still 
The sweetness of thy yoke to prove, 

And fain I would, but though my will 
Seems fix'd, yet wide my passions rove ; 

Yet hindrances strew all the way — 

I aim at thee, yet from thee stay." 

Dear sister, cease to mourn, and come to 
the fountain, plunge into the all-healing 
f stream, with faith believing, and in the self- 
same hour you shall be made whole. Jesus 
has said, "I will give thee rest." Doubt 
not his word. Would to God I could in- 
spire you with a mighty faith. God w T ill 
receive you and make you an Israelite in- 
deed, in whom there is no guile. 

###### 

Whilst we are in the world we must ne- 
cessarily mingle more or less with it. We 
cannot seclude ourselves entirely ; — nor 
would it be right for us to do so. We must 



160 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



let our light thine. Yet we must be on our 
guard lest the world intrude too much. I 
have no fears that yon will engage in any. 
thing that will lead off your heart from that 
best of causes, which you haYe lately 
espoused. If you feel that you cannot with 
a clear conscience enjoy worldly society, 
let no one persuade you to do so. For my 
own part, I feel that this world has no al- 
lurements for me. I cannot enjoy myself 
with the giddy and the gay. I am often 
reproached for my seeming selfishness. But 
my mind has been so absorbed in religion, 
and particularly so for the last few months, 
that I haYe no relish for the company of the 
worldly. I dearly loYe my Christian -friends, 
and I am always refreshed by their society, 
but I cannot enjoy as much of it as I desire. 
When not occupied with my domestic du- 
ties, my whole time is absorbed in prayer 
and in pouring over some faYorite religious 
work. 

# * * * % # 
I cannot refrain from telling you what a 
rich blessing I haYe just received at our 
Sacked Hour. My soul has been filled to 



THE SACRED HOUR. 161 

overflowing. I have had much liberty 
given me in prayer. My faith never was 
as strong as it is now. Why, it appeared 
as though God told me to ask what I would 
and it should be granted. I have asked 
largely in your behalf, and, my dear sister, 
I believe God will answer my petitions. 
Often I have gone to my God in prayer 
with an unbelieving heart. I would pray 
and pray, yet I was afraid to believe that 
He would hear or grant my petition — and 
is this not the way with you sometimes? 
• • • • How are you progressing ? I want 
to hear from you very much, and learn from 
your pen how you have enjoyed yourself 
this week, and what attainments you have 
made. TThen I again hear from you shall 
I hear the joyful news that you have been 
made "free indeed? " I have been cherish- 
ing this hope. God alone knows the intense 
desire I have for you on this subject. I 
know that it will add much to your future 
usefulness. I have the assurance that you 
will be brought into this rest — the rest of 
faith . ■ • • • Have you not placed your all 

upon the altar, and can vou not believe 
11 



162 THE SACRED HOUR. 

that God will accept the sacrifice for Christ's 
sake? O, that God would strengthen your 
faith ! I hope yon are happy this afternoon. 
I pray God that you may realize a great 
blessing to-night, should you attend the 
prayer meeting. I wish I could go with 
you. I should dearly love to be with you 
at your female prayer meetings also, and 
intend going whenever 1 can. You know 
not what a trial it is for me to be deprived 
of these precious means of grace; — yet 
hush, my fond heart: " God hears thy sighs 
and counts thy tears." What rich blessings 
I receive from day to day from his hands ! 
Then why should I complain ? 

Your affectionate 

Amelia. 



LETTEE XY. 



Thursday Afternoon, Oct. 1852. 
Dear Amelia : — I embrace the first op- 
portunity this week to hold sweet converse 
with you upon a subject which endless ages 
can never exhaust. How sweet to call in 
my wandering thoughts, shut out the world 
with all its cares, and with an eye of faith 
look up to " brighter scenes in heaven''. O 
can it be that such unworthy mortals will 
reign forever with the blessed Jesus ? Won- 
drous love ! and yet how little prized or 
sought. I can say with you, I hope this 
winter will be a season long to be remem- 
bered — when our class-rooms will be filled 
with young converts, shouting aloud the 
high praises of Jesus. Let us make this a 
special subject of prayer. A revival of 
God's work in our midst — O, do we not 
need it ? How awful the thought that scores 
of our fellow creatures may be hurried soon 
to try the realities of another world unpre- 
pared. And shall we make no effort in 

163 



164 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



their behalf? We are all throwing our in- 
fluence one way or the other. We ought to 
be on the Lord's side. Fearful responsi- 
bilities rest upon us all. 5 that the Lord 
would open the eyes of the church to see 
their true position. 

With regard to myself, I am still striving 
to grasp the promise. * * * 
% # % # * # It is my 
prayer that he would direct my path, and 
bring me into "this land of rest from 
inbred sin" 

Friday Morning, 11 o'clock. — I have truly 
found it better to " go to the house of mourn- 
ing than to the house of feasting." When 
death comes to the Christian he is stripped 
of all his terrors. With calm, unwavering 
faith I look forward to my release from 
earth, and all its bitter disappointments. I 
cannot think I should grieve or murmur to 
part with the dearest friends on earthy if 
they should die in the triumphs of Christian 
faith, O how I wished this morning, as the 
afflicted family of Bro Landes gathered 
around me, to tell of a father and a husband 
being taken from them, that they could 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



165 



have shared my feelings. He is only gone 
before. The separation will be short ; they 
will soon be reunited in heaven. May our 
death be as calm, peaceful and triumphant 
as was that of Bro. Landes.- • • • Your good 
letter lies before me, and the plan you have 
proposed I shall endeavor to adopt with all 
the sincerity of my heart. This afternoon 
I will go forward in the strength of the God 
of Israel. 

Half-past two o'clock. — O, when shall 
this longing heart be set at liberty ? When 
I would wish to exercise strong faith, then 
doubts, fears and temptations come in like 
a flood. O, what is it that keeps me still 
just on the borders of this goodly land? But 
I must still press forward, believing that 
light will soon dawn upon me. I have had 
a spirit of prayer given me during our Sa- 
cred Hour. 

Friday Night, 10 o'clock. — I have 
just finished reading your precious note. 
My heart is filled with emotions of en- 
dearing love toward you. O, 

how 1 do rejoice for the fellowship of kindred 
minds! God has heard your prayer to- 



166 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



night, and most gloriously displayed to 
your desponding, stricken heart the wonders 
of his grace. 0. wondrous Jove ! O. I do 
praise him for all his loving kindness. 1 
wish I could write something to cheer and 
console you in the absence of your dear 
companion: but I am not competent; my 
heart fails me — but his promises are "yea 
axd amex. v "I will never leave thee or 
forsake thee." 0. as you said to-night, " is 
it nor sweet to trust in him ( " The 
Psalmist says. " The Lord will fulfill the 
desire of them that fear him.*' He is able 
to save to the uttermost. 

Let not the tempter rob you of the 
many precious promises that are on re- 
cord for vour encouragement. • • • • Your 
dear companion will yet see the joys of 'this 
salvation. O. dear sister, put your trust in 
the living God — that same God that shut 
the lions' mouths and preserved his servant 
Daniel — that opened up a way of escape to 
the Israelites of old at the E:^ Sea — that 
blessed Jesus, who raised the dead, opened 
the eyes of the blind, and unstopped the 
ears of the deaf. Does he not hear your 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



167 



cry ? Yes, dearest, he does. He will manifest 
his power most gloriously in your behalf. 

Saturday Evenihg, 8 o'clock. — One more 
is added to my list of days that are forever 
past, and I am on the eve of another of the 
ZorcTs days. This week has flown by so 
swiftly that I can scarcely realize that the 
Sabbath is so near. I hope to meet you all 
in our dear class, which has not met for a 
long time, or at least it seems so to me. 
I do hope we will have a good time. This 
has been a happy week with me, and I have 
been gaining fresh victories over the flesh, 
the icorld, and the devil. 

I do praise God that he put it into our 
hearts to adopt this method of holding sweet 
intercourse. I do most cordially accept 
your proposition to read through the Xew 
Testament in course. Will we begin to- 
morrow ? I think the blessing of God will 
attend it, if faithfully carried out. Our 
"fast day " shall also be strictly observed. 
We have taken a hold stand, and " stand 
committed " not only before the church, but 
men and angels. I am glad of it. God help 
U3 to be faithful. Amen. Sallie, 



LETTEK XVI. 



Piqua, Oct., 1852. 
My Deae Sallie: — With what delight 
do I take up my pen to converse a while 
with you this afternoon. I wish that I 
could describe to you my feelings as they 
are. O, what a happy day this has been to 
me ! My soul is tranquil and peaceful. I 
know not how to compare it This af- 

ternoon, at our Sacred Houk, a rich bless- 
ing was poured into my soul. My faith 
never was stronger. I h&YQ jplead and agon* 
ized in your iehaJf If I could only give 
you this rich blessing, this feast of love that 
I enjoy from day to day, I would gladly do 
so, and then I would again seek it in my 
own lehalf God is willing to bestow it 
upon you. Dearest, you believe I am sin- 
cere, do you not, when I say I would gladly 
bestow this blessing upon you ? Then doubt 
not the willingness of your God. Take him 
at his word. How many precious promises 
are on record for us ; for all those who will 
168 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



169 



seek with their whole heart ! Let me give 
you a few of them only, for it would take 
volumes to write them all : " And ye shall 
seek me and find me, when ye shall search 
for me with oil your heart" "For the Son 
of Man came to seek and to save that which 
was lost: 1 " Him that cometh unto me I 
will in no wise cast out.' 5 # # * 
"I will take away the heart of stone and 
give you a heart of flesh." "All things are 
possible to him that believeth." * 
* * * * * i; I beseech 
you. brethren, by the mercies of God, that 
ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, 
holy, acceptable unto God, which is your 
reasonable service." " Come out from arnon^ 
them, and be ye separate; touch not the 
unclean thing, and I will receive you, and 
will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be 
my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Al- 
mighty." " Knowing this, that 

the trial of your faith worketh patience." 
"Let patience have her perfect work, that 
ye may be perfect and entire, wanting 
nothing." " Blessed is she that believeth, 
for there shall he a performance of those 



170 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



things Which were told her of the Lord."— 
64 And this is the confidence that we hava 
in him. that if we ask anything according 
to his will he heareth us ; and if we know 
that he hear us whatsoever we ask, we 
know that we hare the petitions that we 
desired of him." * * * * 
* "What things soever ye desire when 
ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and 
ye shall have litem" "H ye abide in me 
and my words abide in yon. ye shall ask 
what yon will, and it shall he done unto 
your ; * If we confess our sins he is faithful 
and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse 
us from all unrighteousness" "Without 
holiness no man shall see the Lord." 

Faithful is he that calleth you. who 
also will do it/' If we walk in the light, 
as he is in the light, we \&Y&fdlow&hip one 
with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ 
his Son. cleanseth us from all unrighteous- 
ness." " Having these promises, dearly be- 
loved, let us cleanse ouiselres from all 
filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfeei 
holiness in the fear of the Lord/' u The 
very God of peace sanctify you wholly, and 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



171 



I pray God your whole spirit and soul and 
body be preserved blameless unto the coming 
of our Lord Jesus Christ. 55 

I will leave these precious promises for 
you to meditate upon. I can make no com- 
ments: they are from the word of God. I 
have felt much strengthened while writing 
them down. Many of them I have fully 
realized. I trust you will soon join with me 
in a hearty amen to all of them. 

Sunday Night. — I feel that I cannot re- 
tire without having another talk with you. 
I have wished that you were here this even- 
ing that we could have a long talk face to 
face. When I quit writing this afternoon, 
Sister Pettit came in. We had a long talk. 
She staid with me about two hours. It does 
my soul good to feast with God^s own child- 
ren. This evening I feel more than ever 
encouraged to go on my way rejoicing. I 
have feasted for the last few days . I think 1 ast 
night was the happiest night I ever spent. 
I never feel more fully blest than when 
bearing the cross. When at meeting, I felt 
that I had nothing to say, yet I felt power- 
fully impressed to arise as a witness for Je 



172 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



sus. I first tried to excuse myself, as I had 
spoken the previous morning ; but the more 
I tried to excuse myself, the more deeply did 
I feel that it was my duty to speak — the 
promise came to me, "Open thy mouth 
wide and I will fill it." Glory be to God ! 
I felt that the Spirit did help my infirmities. 
I feel to-night that, God being my helper, I 
will walk unflinchingly in the path of duty; 
I will testify to this full salvation, though 
that path should lead me to a martyr's 
stake. And, O I wish I couid but be the 
instrument in his hands to encourage others 
to seek this full salvation ! I rejoice that 
there is such a waking up on this subject in 
the church. At no time since I have joined 
the M. E. Church have I seen such a hun- 
gering and thirsting after righteousness as 
is now manifested. I know, dearest, you 
are still groaning after this blessing. Be- 
loved, trust your all to God, He has done 
much for you ; he will do more. I feel that 
he has commenced his purifying work in 
your heart. He will complete it. Tou shall 
soon grasp the prize. I think if you were 
only now with me you would realize the 



THE SACRED HOUR. 173 



blessing even this night. My faith is strong 
to-night in your behalf. .... 

" My heart breaks out in strong desire 

The perfect bliss to prove ; 
My longing heart is all on fire 

To be dissolved in love." 

This I know is the language of your 
heart. !S r ow, cast yourself at the foot of the 
cross once more ; surrender your all to God; 
take your precious Bible, pray ardently, 
fervently, and with faith helieving, that 
God would direct you to some portion of 
Scripture that you may take hold upon. 

tI£ "fa 

Your affectionate 

Amelia. 



LETTER XVII. 

Piqua, Oct., 1852. 

My Dear Amelia: — I have been Ions:- 
ing, for the last few days, to sit down quiet- 
ly once more, in my own room, and devote 
a short time to this dear privilege, — but it 
seems almost impossible to have even a few 
minutes alone. I have now stolen off to 
enjoy our precious " Sacred Hour," and 
fear I shall be interrupted. Last evening 
just as I had seated myself to spend the 
evening in writing, company came in, and 
I most unwillingly laid aside my pen to en- 
tertain them. After this week I will make 
ample amends. 

I was indeed sadly disappointed on Sab- 
bath morning. I often looked toward the 
door, expecting to greet you. I must not 
murmur, — doubtless it is all right, though 
to us poor short-sighted mortals it may seem 
hard at the time. Amelia, my prayers were 
certainly answered in your behalf. I know 
you were blessed. Thank God ! he is not 

confined to the public congregation 

174 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



175 



I went to the class-room much depressed 
in heart, but soon every cloud was dispelled, 
and rapturous joy filled my soul, my spirit- 
ual sky was clear and bright, and light 
from above beamed upon me. My spiritual 
strength was renewed, and I felt prepared 
to go forth in the world, for another week, in 
the all-prevailing name of Jesus, courage- 
ously to maintain the cause of my Divine 
Master. 

The sermon at eleven o'clock was from 
our dear, dear Bro. Gacldis. His text was, 
" In the name of our God we will set up our 
banners." 20th Psalm, 5th verse. 

^ ^ ^ % % % 

I have given you a faint outline of Bro. 
Gaddis' sermon. I will resume my subject 
and give you the evening sermon. I must 
now return to my household affairs. May 
God be with us. 

Saturday Morning. — The time for our 
quarterly meeting has arrived, and I rejoice 
that I am spared to enjoy its great privileges. 
My prayer is that it may be a season long 
to be remembered by us all. O, that our 
God would come down in great power; and 



176 THE SACKED HOUR. 

that some of us, who so ardently desire to 
enjoy his full salvation, may realize it. 
I sometimes think this unbeliev- 
ing heart will never give up. Temptations 
come in on every side. But I know in 
whom I trust. He will deliver me. I de- 
sire a spirit of continual prayer and watch- 
fulness. My opportunities for holding sweet 
communion with my blessed Saviour have 
been few of late. I have tried while en- 
gaged about domestic affairs, to have 
my wandering heart drawn off from the 
world with all its perplexities, and fixed on 
things above, and I have been in a measure 
blessed in so doing. But I have been re- 
peatedly deprived of going to my room at 
our Sacred Hour, on account of company. 

I feel more and more that nothing but 
perfect love could enable you to endure the 
deep anguish of soul you have experienced. 
But God has dealt kindly and mercifully, 
and brought you into his banqueting house, 
and now his banner over you is love. Ton 
have drank deep from the wells of salvation. 
His blood has washed away all your sins. 
God be praised for a full atonement. (), 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



177 



may / soon feel it applied to my depraved 
heart. I wish I could now surrender all and 
believe; but I have an unbelieving heart. 
I shrink "back — I am afraid to venture. • • • 
Saturday Evening. — I regret very much 
that we were interrupted this afternoon, 
while conversing upon our favorite topic. I 
hope we may have an opportunity to resume 
it ere long. • * * * We shall there reign to- 
gether, and sing redeeming love. 

I know you will be strongly tempted by 
the adversary to withhold your testimony. 
u I have pray ed that your faith fail not." 
You must improve every opportunity to 
press others to seek for this great blessing, 
and I know that good will attend your ef- 
forts. God grant that you may indeed be 
a burning and a shining light to all around 
you. 

Your affectionate 

Sallie. 



Piqtta, ISTov.. 1852. 

Dearly beloved Sister : — With a glad 

heart I seat rnvself this evening to converse 
12 



178 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



with you. • • • • "Trust in the living God/ 5 
is my motto for life. Yes, thank God, in 
every emergency, I will trust in Him ; and 
I know of nothing that strengthens my faith 
so much as repeating this motto to myself 
when tempted I feel to-night- 
very needy in this respect Our 

friend Caughey knew how to exercise faith. 
I have just been reading another one of his 
precious sermons on quenching the Spirit. 
What a thrill of horror passed over me as I 
found that the sin against the Holy Ghost 
was " quenching and grieving " the Holy 
Spirit, — that it was sometimes the work of 
years. My prayer is that I may never, no, 
never, be found guilty of committing this 

sin wilfully and intentionally. 

Thursday Afternoon, — Our Sacred 
Hour has just passed, and I am grateful for 
being allowed to enjoy this privilege, unin- 
terrupted. Despite of my best efforts the 
world, of late would creep in upon me, at 
times, so that I have often, during this 
week felt harrassed. My mind would 
often become confused. But I praise God, 
this afternoon, for the "light of his counte- 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



179 



nance.' 3 I again feel calm and peaceful. 
I will now watch and pray, that I may be 
enabled to maintain this position, and keep 
in the spirit of Christ. I will now give you 
the outline of our Sabbath morning sermon, 
i # # * * * 
Your affectionate, 

Sallie. 



CHAPTEE VI. 



LETTER XYIII. 

Piqtta, Nov., 1852. 

My Dear Sister : — Although my do- 
mestic duties almost forbid, I cannot refrain 
from having a little talk with you, this 
morning. What a night I have passed ! I 
never was so happy in all my life; and I 
know you were very, very happy. I retired 
about nine o'clock, calm and peaceful — so 
fully had I committed oil into the hands of 
my covenant-keeping God. I awoke about 
midnight, and O, such rapturous joy fill- 
ed my whole soul, I was completely over- 
poicered with the love of God. 

I have found it good to wait before God. 
I have great liberty in pleading for those 1 
dearly love, and for the spread of that glo- 
rious work which has been commenced. 
O, may it be but the beginning of good 
times. I hope scores will be brought into 
the fold of Christ Jesus. How my heart 
yearns over perishing souls ; and I should 
like to be among vou around that good altar. 
180 



THE SACKED HOUE. 



181 



But Glory be to God, though I am deprived 
the privileges of the sanctuary, yet I have 
many blessed privileges which I can enjoy, 
with my blessed Bible and other good boohs, 
among which is our friend Caughey's Earnest 
Christianity. And then I enjoy our Sacked 
Houk. 

The course we have been pursuing I 
find very profitable. My heart keeps con- 
tinually ascending to the throne. Praise 
God, no one can deny me this blessed priv- 
ilege. I will endeavor patiently to endure 
the cross, despising the shame. One great 
comfort and source of encouragement to 
me is, to know that I have the prayers of 
some of Christ's chosen ones. How shall I 
repay your kind solicitude and fervent pray- 
ers, that have ascended for me this week ? 

I know I have felt their influence. 

I know you will not lose your reward, — it 
awaits you in glory. Earth's goods are too 
poor to remunerate such goodness. Now, 
Sallie, you are happy now. O that you 
may enjoy Heaven's richest blessings dur- 
ing this meeting, and be brought into 
the full liberty which Christ has purchased 



182 



THE SACRED HOUB. 



for us. My verse this morning, how it has 
set my soul all on fire. "When Jesus, 
therefore, had received the vinegar, he said, 
It is finished : and he bowed his head and 
gave up the ghost." It is finished. O, 
there is a world of meaning in those words. 
Then was salvation purchased on the cross, 
and why should we withhold part of that 
price? Let us give all to Christ. " It is 
finished." O, what pleasure do these words 

afford 

Saturday Mornixg. — My precious sister, 
being alone once more, sad and weary, I 
take up my pen to write a few lines. I 
know not why it is, but there was an unu- 
sual sadness took possession of my feelings 
yesterday afternoon and this morning. I 
have had no particular trial or temptation, 
but there hangs over me a settled gloom. My 
pathway never appeared darker. I cannot 
see one inch before me. Here I am, just 
holding on by naked Faith alone, trusting 
that light will again spring up. But though 
the rest of my journey in this pilgrimage 
shall be through clouds and darkness, yet I 
have this assurance that there shall be light 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



183 



at the end of the journey. O, would that I 
were now in Heaven. God s children often 
have their most severe afflictions just on the 
verge of Jordan. 

I find that my last week's conflict has 
wrought a strange change in my spirits and 
feelings, which I can never out-live. Life 
has lost many of its sweets to me, yet I will 
patiently endure. This is, perhaps, part of 
the cup. Paul had a thorn in the flesh, and 
though he often prayed to be delivered from 
it, God saw fit that it should not be re- 
moved; but his answer was, "My grace 
shall be sufficient." My very life clings to 
that promise. Hitherto I know it has been 
sufficient, and why should I now doubt. 
No, I will still trust in the strong arm of 
Jehovah. 

^ "Ufa % "H" ^ 

O, if I could only enjoy those feelings 
which I did some three or four weeks ago. 
O, I was then so happy, — I did not then 
think I should have so soon to pass through 
such darkness. Yet I will not repine. I 
am very thankful for what I have enjoyed, 
and I shall yet praise God for this fiery 



184 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



trial. Though I am deprived of meeting 
with you in many of the gospel ordinances, 
remember my heart is always with you, and 
I trust God will not forsake me, but whilst 
blessing those loved ones in the sanctuary, I 
hope he will not pass by a " weeping Mary 
at the foot of the cross." 

Would that I could with you now retire 
to some solitary place, where no eye but 
that of God should rest upon us, and there 
unbosom to you my feelings, — some of the 
feelings which have long lay buried in the 
deepest recesses of my heart. I had once 
thought I would never relate them ; but dear- 
est, they are drinking up my spirits, — may 
I not unbosom to you some of those feelings ? 
I believe you will not be unfaithful. I feel 
very much cast down this morning. O, I 
feel as though I could weep my very life 
away. But ah, my tears will not suffice. 
* * # # # 

I am well convinced that it was my duty 
to join in with this people. My conscience 
would have reproached me if I had not 

pursued the course I did. I have 

never regretted that I pursued the course I 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



l3o 



did, and notwithstanding I have had trials 
and sore persecutions, yet God has gracious- 
ly sustained me. I have, through his grace, 
been enabled to come off conqueror in every 
instance. But here is my dear little son. 
I wish to train him up in the way he should 

go Ah, do you wonder that I spend 

some agonising moments? With 

what confidence can I commit that precious 

little one into the hands of my God 

I have fully dedicated him to the Lord, 
trusting that if his life is spared he may 
rise to eminence, not as regards this world, 
but as an ambassador of Christ. 

Afternoon, 3 o'clock. — Dearest sister, 
truly my heart has been tuned afresh, this 
afternoon. O, what a feast indeed have I 
enjoyed at our Sacred Hour. Though I 
was cast down this morning, my cries and 
anguish were not forgotten by Him who is 
ever ready to comfort the hearts of his chil- 
dren. Thank God I may number myself with 
his children. 

When I retired this afternoon, a holy calm 
spread over my feelings. It appeared as if 
a voice spoke to me, and said, " What ail- 



186 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



eth thee; and why is thy countenance 
sad ? " Am I not better to thee than earthly 
friends ? Cast all thy care upon the Lord, 
for he careth for you. " Delight thyself also 
in the Lord, for he shall give thee the desires 
of thine heart. Commit thy way unto the 
Lord ; trust also in him ; and he shall bring 
it to pass/' My heart has been made to 
turn to God as my entire portion, and he has 
suffered me to lean on his bosom, to hang 
on his arm and lisp "Abba, Father!" 
Hallelujah ! O, what blessed moments. It 
appears as though there was but one step 
between me and heaven. I feel perfect, full, 
entire satisfaction with all that God is, and 
all that he does. I can trust him fully with 
all my concerns, spiritual, temporal and 
eternal. "He doeth all things well. 55 I feel 
just now, that my will, my entire will, is 
swallowed up in his will. Husband and 
child are fully given up, and I have made a 
more full surrender of myself. The lan- 
guage of my heart is, "Here Lord I give 
myself to thee; use me as thou seest best. 
Though trials or deep waters be mine to pass 
through, this promise meets me, — "Fear 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



187 



not, for I am with thee ; be not dismayed, 
for I am thy God : I will strengthen thee, 
yea I will help thee : yea, I will uphold thee 
with the right hand of my righteousness. " 
Is not this enough? Could you see or feel 
that ecstacy of joy which I now possess, I 
know that you would join witli me in shout- 
ing Glory! Glory! Glory to God, in the 
highest ! I believe you too, are now rejoic- 
ing. I feel that you are happy; you feel 
very near me just now. I feel as though I 
were clasped in your embrace. God does 
deign to bring us very near spiritually, at 
times, I know it, feel it. Hallelujah ! I 
wish I could tell you my feelings, but dear- 
est, you know I cannot. 

At this Sacred Hour, three weeks ago, 
I received the witness that the blood of J esus 
cleanseth from all sin. What peaceful, hap- 
py hours I have enjoyed since then. Not a 
cloud has arisen until this morning. But 
thank God, that has been dispelled, and this 
afternoon I have been permitted to have a 
still deeper plunge in the all-healing stream. 
There is an all-sufficiency in the atoning mer- 
its of a crucified Savior. And since I have 



188 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



been permitted to taste of this fall salvation, 
none need ever despair, fori the "chief of sin- 
ners am, but Jesus died for me." O, won- 
drous love, that brought the King of Glory 
down to offer his life a ransom for such vile 
worms of the dust. We must wonder ana 
adore. Salvation brought to dying man. — 
Salvation full and free. Yes, dearest, full 
and free — free as the air we breathe. 
# * # * # 

Your affectionate 

Amelia. 



LETTER XIX. 

Piqua, Dec, 1852. 
My Dear Sister Amelia: — I embrace 
the present opportunity to speak of ray pres- 
ent hopes and joys. It will be a sad trial to 
be detained from our class in the morning, 
but mother insists upon my remaining in- 
doors to-morrow; and I think myself, it 
would not be advisable to expose myself 
just now. But do not be uneasy, dearest, / 
am not dangerous, I will be careful and 
please my dear mother; I know it will grat- 
ify her, and she will enjoy the means of grace 
when she feels that I am safe at home. I will 
not intentionally cause her anxiety, but it is 
an act of self-denial on my part, I assure you. 
I love my dear, good mother, and will try to 
make her happy. 

But to begin on our good and interesting 
theme. Since your visit I have been enjoy- 
ing myself* very well, all the time, — not, 
indeed, on the mountain top, but I have had 
Buch a burning desire constantly to engage 

189 



190 



THE SACRED HOUR 



with all my ransomed powers, in praying 
for those who have no interest in our dear 
Jesus. O, it is my continual prayer that 
God would stir up all cold and lukewarm 
professors to double their diligence in this 
good cause. And now this passage of scrip- 
ture comes to mind, — 56 If any two of you 
agree as touching one thing, and ask the 
Father, it shall be done unto you." O, then, 
as our hearts are in tune, let us pray ardent- 
ly, through the coming week, that the hearts 
of our brothers and sisters may be prepared 
for an outpouring of his Holy Spirit, — that 
the work may commence and spread from 
heart to heart. O, that holiness may be the 
aim of all, and that Bro. Gaddis may have 
the fire kindled upon the altar of his heart, 
while delivering those sermons he has 
promised to preach. O that I, too, may 
catch the flame. I never can give up 
the struggle; I believe that God himself 
has implanted in my heart the desire for 
this blessing, and when I can come in the 
omnipotence of strong faith he will re- 
ceive me. 

During the past week I have consecrated 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



191 



myself daily to his service, and I have en- 
deavored to look up in faith, believing that 
the sacrifice was accepted, but something 
keeps me back. Can it be unbelief? O, 
may God speedily remove it. I want to be 
holy, to be pure and like my blessed Jesus. 
I shall yet be a witness of his all-cleans- 
ing power. I feel it, — but the enemy is ev- 
er on the alert. One strong temptation I 
have had to contend with is this suggestion, 
— that I have been a witness for justification 
but a few months, while scores of old pro- 
fessors who have been so long in the way 
will not receive my testimony even were I 
living in the enjoyment of holiness ; for many 
believe it is not attainable for vouno; converts. 
But when I see, and feel, and suffer, every 
hour and day, from inbred sin, and am con- 
vinced that there is a fountain opened for 
sin and uncleanness, may I not, though vile 
and unworthy as I am, plunge in and be 
cleansed? Yes, yes! — and my God will 
not reject me upon the plea that I am a sin- 
ner. I will never despair. He is so con- 
descending why should I fear to approach 
him through Jesus ? But I must not dwell 



192 



THE SACRED HOUE. 



too long here. Suffice it to say, dearest, be- 
cause I have not alluded to this subject, I 
have not ceased to feel. No, do not think 
I am discouraged. I will ever press on till 
I am in possession of this much desired 
blessing. 

I had quite a feast this afternoon, over 
Sister Mary Mitchell's funeral sermon, by 
Bro. Gaddis, published in the last two num- 
bers of the Guide to Holiness. She was 
one dear, good woman : I only hope I may 
be as truly pious and devoted as she was. 
Her example speaks volumes. 

Now ere I bid you good night I would say 

in regard to the conversion of , do not 

be overcome by the devices of the evil one. 
He can quote scripture when it suits his pur- 
pose, and doubtless he will often come in 
the " form of an angel of light ; " but boldly 
renew the struggle, and you will come off 
more than conqueror. Do not listen to his 
wicked suggestions. God is willing, he is 
able, and we will unitedly come to a throne 
of grace ; and our prayers will reach his ear, 
and our hearts will not only be gladdened 
by his being saved, but scores of others will 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



193 



shout God's high praises in the class-room. 
I could write much more — my heart is full 
— but wearied nature gives signs of rebel- 
lion, and I must seek my chamber of repose. 
O, may you be rich in love, to-morrow, is 
the prayer of your devoted 

Sister in Christ, 

Sallie. 



Piqua, Dec, 1852. 

My Dear Amelia : — Although I have 
not been permitted to use my pen this week 
before now, I embrace this, my first oppor- 
tunity. I wished often, after returning from 
church, with a soul all alive, — burning 
with the love of God, to sit down and have 
a good social chat on paper with you. O, I 
have longed to hear how you are progress- 
ing — what is your present state of mind — 
whether the cloud has yet been dispersed. 
God alone knows the deep solicitude I have 
felt in your behalf. I have prayed that in 
the darkest hour you might have sustaining 

grace given you and a speedy deliverance. 
13 



194 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



I have constantly besieged a throne of grace, 
for you. — nor I alone. Our dear old class- 
leader met me on the street, on Monday, 
and kindly inquired the cause of your ab- 
sence from all our good meetings. I told 
him I feared that circumstances at home 
would not admit of your coming. He 
seemed instantly to catch my meaning, and 
said your case should be a special subject 
of prayer with him ; and had you seen the 
tear of sympathy gathering in his eye as he 
spoke of your being deprived of so much 
enjoyment, you would love him better than 
ever. 

God knows I love you dearly, and would 
cheerfully bear half your crosses, were it 
possible. Last night a sister told me you 
were sick. I said nothing, of course, but 
thought to myself, sick at heart, as well 
as in hody. I want to have a good, plain 
talk with you. You will observe that I 
but seldom allude to what you have to en- 
dure for your religion, but it is not because 
I do not think of it. No, far from it. I 
have a heart keenly alive to the sorrows that 
daily crowd your path through life. I have 



THE SACRED HOUK. 195 

ever felt a delicacy in referring to this mat- 
ter; but now, if yon just permit me, with 
all the kindness of a sister, to tell you what 
course I would pursue, I will do so frankly 
and plainly. Isow I may be wrong, but 
you can use your own judgment. I have 
thought much and prayed more for the 
guidance of the Holy Spirit, and I feel in 
pointing out this way to you, I have been 
led into it, not of myself, but from the wis- 
dom that is from above. You are yielding 
too much, I fear 3 when you allow yourself to 
be deprived of attending upon all the means 
of grace, when God has spoken in tones of 
thunder from Mount Sinai, " Remember the 

Sabbath day to keep it holy," etc. 

Kow we are not only required to abstain or 
refrain from labor, but to engage actively in 
the service of God, looking away from, earth 
and its oppositions, to Jesus, the author of 
our faith. Besides, our example in this is 
not what it should be before a gainsaying 
world. Our religion is worth everything, 
or it is worth nothing at all ; and I solemn- 
ly believe you are brought to the present 
crisis, for the sole purpose of offering your- 



196 



THE SACKED HOUB. 



self more entirely upon the altar of sacri- 
fice. Have you given up all ? You answer 
"I have, if I know my own heart." # * 
* # % # % Yov- 

give my plainness, but I must go forward 
even if I gain your displeasure. Jesus has 
offered his life for you, and are you willing 
to do as much for him ? ' Can you say, let 
storms come, let opposition and persecution 
rear its giant head, I will quietly and firm- 
ly resolve to serve God, attend church, grow 
in grace, and save my own soul. I have a 
settled conviction that in this way God will 
display himself in mighty power. If you 
will just resolve, in the strength of Israel's 
God, to face whatever comes — bitter perse- 
cutions, reproaches, scorn, contempt, ridi- 
cule, sarcasm — then the sacrifice will be 
complete, — your will, will then be entirely 
swallowed up in his will. Then a form like 
unto the Son of God will appear with you 
in the fiery furnace. God is just as able, and 
as willing, to deliver those who cast them- 
selves now wholly into his hands, as in formei 

years. It will all be to his glory. 

The time has come, if I am not mistaken, 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



197 



when you must pursue one course, or the 
other, — either cow take advanced ground, 
or with shame and confusion of face go 
back. Just think it over, calmly, and you 
will come to the same conclusion that I have. 
I have a case now in my mind, — an aged 
couple, and I would add, a very happy 
couple, too. I am personally acquainted 
with them. In the days of girlhood he 
sought to win her love, and she finally 
yielded, after many promises on his part, 
that she should be permitted to enjoy her 
religion. She was a devoted christian — he 
a perfect sceptic. Well, after marriage, he 
forgot his many promises, or changed his 
opinion, and forbid her attending public 
worship, or any of the means of grace. 
She persisted in doing her duty, gently, 
camly and mildly, amidst his " stormings/' 
He grew more and more abusive, and she 
was still more firm, but loving and obedient. 
He finally began to beat her unmercifully. 
She endured it with all the fortitude of a 
martyr, never trying to revenge herself in 
any way, till at last his proud, stubborn 
heart was melted ly love. He was awfully 



198 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



convicted, and never could rest until God 

spoke peace to his soul. Thus you see how 
love conquered him. And now he says 
u Give God the glory;" but his sweet wife 
was the instrument of saving his soul; and 
he can never cease praising God for such a 
wife. 

Could I inspire vour heart with the strong 
faith I am in possession of this afternoon, 
you would be a partaker of many rich feasts 
in the sanctuarv. and be doing something 
for his cause. Those strong desires were 
not implanted in your heart just to torture 
you. From this time begin and labor in a 
cause so worthy. Your hands need be tied 
no longer: burst the shackles and rush forth, 
resolved to do battle for God, and you will 
be mightily rescued. If your life should be 
the forfeit, let it go, — eternal life awaits 
you: yes, eternal glory and immortality be- 
yond the grave. 

I have now done my duty, and it remains 
with you whether you pursue this course, or 

My heart saddens when I think, 

perhaps I have staked our friendship upon 
this letter. The enemy whispers that you 
will be offended at my boldness. Well, I 



THE SACRED HOUR. 199 



have withheld nothing. I have written 
more plainly than I ever expected to, but 
since I have been so powerfully and urgent- 
ly instructed by the leadings of the Holy 
Spirit, to deal thus with you, a fearful re- 
sponsibility rested upon me, which I tried, in 
vain, to shun. I have had no rest from con- 
science, till this duty was peformed. I am 
glad I had grace given me to present the 
truth and the whole truth ; and if you do 
not think I have assumed a scriptural posi- 
tion, let me know it. I feel strong in the 
power of God, and I can present passages 
from the Bible to sustain me, or bear 

me out 

Now I turn to myself. This week has 
been a glorious, a happy week to my soul. 
Thank God, that with the opening year I 
have been enabled to take a fresh start for 
the kingdom. Glory be to God, that 1 am 
permitted to hear nightly the shouts of new 
born converts. Praise the Lord, he has be- 
gun a mighty work among sinners ; and the 
backslidden are reclaimed, the lukewarm 
revived ! The gospel car rolls gloriously 
forward. Glory be to our God, for what I 
have been permitted to feel and see. O, 



200 THE SACRED HOUB. 



how pleasant to see our brothers and sisters 
around that sacred altar, with faces beaming 
with happiness, singing the high praises of 
our Redeemer, He is mighty to save — 
strong to deliver. Our pitchers have been 
let down deep into the wells of salvation, 
and we have been filled to overflowing with 

glory and with God. Now 1 shall 

pray ardently for you to-night, that your 
heart may beat in unison with mine, and oe 
filled unspeakably full of all the fulness of 
the Godhead. 

****** 
Your affectionate 

Sallie 



LETTER XX. 



Piqua, Monday Afternoon, Jan. 24. 
My Deab Sallie: — Most gladly do I 
embrace a few lone moments, and devote 
them to you. I have peace within^ though 
outward conflicts abound. I feel that I am 
stripped of everything^ but by naked faith 
alone I still cling to the cross. True, I have 
had some precious moments since I saw you 
last, but at times I feel cast down and de- 
jected. This, I presume, is from the multi- 
plicity of cares which just now crowd upon 
my mind. You noticed on Friday after- 
noon, whilst I was attempting to bear my 
cross, that I was, as it were, shut up. I 
cannot now, nor could I then, account for 
the sudden transition of feeling that came 
over my mind, but I am resolved, in the 
strength of Jesus, henceforth to bear my 
cross unflinchingly, and follow the leadings 
of God's Holy Spirit, fearless of the world. 
But you do not know how I was strength- 
ened by the few remarks from that sainted 

201 



202 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



Mother Rayner. I have prayed ever since 
our meeting commenced that I could hear 
something from her that would encourage 
me. Thank God, I felt that my prayer was 
answered. My last conflicts and trials Sa- 
tan endeavored to use to his best advantage. 
I often felt aflraid that my faith would fail 
me on this point. I thought after a soul 
was once brought into the rest of faith, or 
perfect love, that it would not have to com- 
bat with the powers of darkness, but that all 
would be peace. This sometimes perplexed 
me, and I would be led to say — have I de- 
ceived myself? — have I been basing my 
hopes upon a false foundation? But in all 
my heart searchings I would be constrained 
to cry out, Lord I am thine, wholly thine" 
When Mother Rayner spoke of her having 
" conflicts and having to endure the buffet- 
ing of Satan,' 5 I felt more fully than ever 
that my all was upon the Altar. I would 
still maintain that the blood of Jesus clean s- 
eth from all sin, and that he can keep that 
&ox\\. forever clean who day and night hangs 
on him by simple faith. 

Yesterday was as joyous a day as I could 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



203 



have wished. I felt somewhat disappoint- 
ed in not getting out in the morning, and 
had some little things to perplex my mind, 
yet I endeavored to keep it stayed upon God. 
In the evening I was made very happy — one 
dear one I knew had not forgotten me at the 

mercy seat It is our Sacked Hour, 

and I must drop my pen and bow with you 
at the Throne of Grace. 

Saturday Morning. — My heart is full. 
I wish that I could unburden my feelings to 
you. I can truly adopt our verse this morn- 
ing — "My soul melteth for heaviness; 
strengthen thou me according unto thy 
word. 55 .... This has been a week of great 
depression of spirit. I have felt sometimes 
as though I must sink beneath my burden. 
By faith alone I held on to the cross. I 
know not what is to befall me ; I look to 
Jesus, the author and finisher of my faith, 
for refuge. I feel that I am stripped of 
every earthly source of comfort. I have had 
to endure scoffs, contempt, and ridicule, and 
my heart has been made to bleecf afresh 
many times ; yet I have been enabled with 
an unwavering confidence, to trust in God. 



204 



THE SACKED HOUB. 



I sometimes know not what course to pur- 
sue — I have committed my all to God, and 
I wish to be guided by Him alone. I fear 
to choose for myself in some of my trying 
moments. I hope I have still an interest 
in your unceasing prayers. If ever needy 
soul required them, your unworthy sister in 
Christ does now. O, that I may be kept 
from falling or yielding too much to the 
wily foe. I long to hear from you, and re- 
ceive a word of encouragement and consola- 
tion, as you are the only earthly being to 
whom I thus communicate my feelings. I 
have often been with you in fancy 
around that hallowed altar. Some may 
despise it, and call us all enthusiasts, yet I 
fear and tremble for such — I fear that they 
will find out when it is too late that there is 
a divine reality in our holy religion. 
###### 
I must tell you one of my encouraging 
little visions. I fancied I was sitting by 
your side in the class-room, when on a sud- 
den the door opened, and a stranger enter- 
ed ; all eyes were fixed upon him : he had a 
sweet, smiling face, and while I was look- 



THE SACRED HOUE, 



205 



ing at him. he approached me and handed 
me two notes. I shall never forget the 
brilliancy of your countenance as you smiled 
and said, K A message from heaven/' 1 
opened the first note, and it was inscribed 
within. "Feed my Lambs* I then hastily 
opend the other, and imagine my great joy 
while I read the following: i; Thou shall 
walk with me in white.* These words 
were written in golden letters. On awaking 
suddenly these words also came into my 
mind: " I will go in the strength of the 
Lord God; I will make mention of thy 
righteousness, even thine only.*' This wa3 
followed by a sweet peace of soul through- 
out the dav. 
%/ 

Your affectionate 

Amelia. 



LETTER XXI. 

Wednesday Afternoon. Dec. 1S52, 
My Dear Amelia: — Once more being 
blessed with the privilege of committing to 
paper a few thoughts upon our ever sacred 
theme, I gladly improve the opportunity. 
We are now alone. During our Sacred 
Hour, which has just passed, I found it 
good to call upon the name of our Lord. O 
how richly has he deigned to bless me since 
I saw you on Sabbath evening, during the 
sermon. You have been praying for me. 
and you. too, received a blessing — I cannot 
be mistaken. Such a flood of light and 
glory burst upon my soul as I never felt be- 
fore. I went to church in a different mood 
from what I ever have since I became a 
Christian. 0, what an unfit state of mind 
was I in to worship in the house of God ! 
Evil feelings tried hard to gain the masteiy 
over me, but grace prevailed. After being 
seated, I became deeply engaged in prayer. 
I resolved that I would never rest until I 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



20, 



felt all these unholy passions cast out, and 
love should sit porter at the door. A wrest- 
ling, Jacob-like spirit was given me, and 
while the minister was preaching my heart 
was filled to overflowing. I felt a3 
though I should love to stay for ever there, 
and feast upon the rich things of God. A 
deep solemnity was depicted upon every 
countenance ; — the minister preached just 
as if he could see the horrors of the damned 
in hell, and the happiness awaiting the 
faithful. He preached of eternity and death, 
and seemed to feel that precious, immortal 
souls were at stake. Great power and lib- 
erty was given him. 

Friday Morning. — TJpon this, the last 
day of eighteen hundred and fifty-two , I 
would take my pen and note a few passing 
thoughts. In view of the many happy sea- 
sons I have enjoyed during the past year — 
the happiest of my life — I can say, " what 
shall I render to the Lord for all his benefits 
to me? 55 Truly, "the lines have fallen to 
me in pleasant places, and I have a goodly 
heritage/ 5 • • • • This morning ere the light 
had dawned I awoke, and O ! what a sweet 
peace of soul I axnfiri pjv^ in view of God'& 



208 



THE SACRED HOUR, 



goodness to me. And now, when I can 
compare the pleasure I enjoy in the service 
of God with the fleeting, transitory joys that 
earth can yield, I am lost in wonder, love 
and praise. Who, after having tasted the 
sweets of religion, could turn back to the 
beggarly elements of the world? I have 
had but a drop from the vast, boundless 
ocean of God's infinite love. O, that as 
1853 closes, I may say ( should my life be 
prolonged,) that I know by blest experience, 
the joys of "full salvation" Why should 
I stand so long upon the brink, fearful to 
launch away? O, dear sister, do not allow 
the tempter to induce you to ^withhold 
yoitr testimony " There are not a few when 
they hear from your lips that the blood of 
Christ cieanseth from all sin, who will feel 
a struggle in their bosoms to plunge beneath 
the purple flood, and test its healing power. 
O, then, as another year is ushered in, re- 
solve, in the strength of Israel's God, to 
"push the battle to the gates," and renew 
your efforts in urging it upon the hearts of 
your class-mates. For my own part, I am 
resolved to do my duty as a Christian ; to 



THE SACRED HOUR, 



209 



come out from the world and the spirit of 
the world, and seek that precious gem— -pu- 
rity of heart. Holiness shall be my aim, 
now, henceforth, and forever. I will pray 
that grace may be given you to go forward, 
and not falter whenever an opportunity is 
presented. You will reap a rich reward, be 
assured of that. The interest you have 
manifested in behalf of your young brothers 
and sisters — "the lambs of the flock? — 
will not be forgotten. It will be as bread 
cast upon the waters. Do not give up to a 
spirit of repining that you are accomplishing 
nothing for the cause which I know you 
love so dearly. We find it sometimes hard 
to suffer the will of God ; we would prefer 
"active service;" but we must suffer as 
well as do his will. The reward is equally 
glorious. And if in his infinite wisdom he 
sees fit to display his wondrous power in 
sustaining the weakest believer while pass- 
ing through the deep waters, or the ordeal 
of fire or persecution, can we not say, "Thy 
will be done." His grace is sufficient. To 
him will we ascribe all power, praise and 

glory. Let him do what seemeth good — so 
14 



210 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



that we may be used in any way to bring 
about that happy period when all shall 
know the Lord. 

You seemed to hint in one of your letters 
that I had so many friends, perhaps I sel- 
dom thought of you. Dear Amelia, I am 
very anxious such impressions should be en- 
tirely removed. There is no one I love 
more truly, or that occupies my thoughts 
and prayers oftener, or has a larger place in 
my affections than you — so away with all 
such mistaken ideas. I felt pained when 
reading it ; I hope you will not again fall 
into such an error. 

Jan. 1st, 1853, 10'clock. — A happy, hap- 
jpy New Year, dearest. • • • • O, what a 
solemn time we had last evening, as we 
met to pass the last hours of 1852 in prayer, 
and resolve as 1853 dawned upon us to take 
a fresh start for the kingdom. As a church 
we solemnly dedicated ourselves anew to 
his service; our covenant vows are regis- 
tered on High. May we all prove faithful 
to those solemn vows. This is the first 
privilege I have had of beginning the year 
as a Christian. O, that as 1854 comes it 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



211 



may find me perfected in many of the 
Christian's graces, should I live; but if 
God, in his infinite wisdom, sees fit to 
change me from the church below to the 
bright realms of glory, to reign forever with 
my blessed Master, may my work be done, 
and well done. O, should I be called from 
the circle of dear friends whom 1 love so 
well, may my death be such as becometh a 
servant of the living God. 

You ask if I have not some "good plans 
for the future" for us mutually to engage in? 
I have begun the year by committing a pas- 
sage of Scripture every day from a Diary- 
arranged for this special object. I find in 
this way food for contemplation and prayer, 
and think it will prove beneficial. My verse 
to-day is, cc What is your life? It is even 
as a vapor, which appeareth for a little 
while and then vanisheth away? I wish I 
could suggest one for you too. This plan 
presented itself to me sometime ago, but I 
never adopted it before. I have also com- 
menced a journal of my religious experi- 
ence, intended for my own use, which, in 
reviewing, will prove beneficial. Next 



£12 



THE SACRED HOUR 



week I am going to begin the ^Pilgrints 
Progress." Aside from these I have not 
thought of any other plan, except it be some 
general rules to icalk more closely with my 
God. I would gladly join with you in any 
new plan you may propose. I leave it to 
you. * •> • But I must now drop my pen. 

Your affectionate 

Sallie. 



LETTER XXIL 



Piqua, June, 1853. 
My Dear Sallie : — I am now going to 
write tc you just as if we were talking face 
to face. Our verse from the Diary to-day 
is beautiful, — 4 4 These things have I spoken 
unto you, that in me ye might have peace." 

"On the Rock of Ages founded, 
What can shake our sure repose ? 

With salvation's walls surrounded, 
We may smile at aU our foes." 

I had a strange vision upon my bed last 
night. I will give you a faint outline of it. 
While wrapt in profound slumber, I fancied 
you and I had started upon a journey. "We 
were travelling on foot together. Our road 
led us through beautiful groves, and by mur- 
muring brooks. At first our pathway was 
perfectly smooth, and side by side, and 
heart to heart, we journeyed forward, feast- 
ing on the beauties of nature and the good- 
ness of God — our hearts burning with love 
for the blessed Savior, who had done so 

213 



2U 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



much foi us. Occasionally the scene would 
change — our pathway become rugged and 
thorny 3 leading us through a dark and 
dreary forest. Then I thought we would 
cling close to each other — each in turn di- 
recti which way to go in order to find a 
j la :e of refuge. After wandering about for 
some time we suddenly emerged from the 
dark, wild woods, and entered an extensive 
plain. I wish I had language to describe it 
to you, as it appeared to me in my dream. 
Ir reminded me of Eden, or the "Elysian 
Fields." It abounded in beautiful springs 
of water, at which we quenched our thirst, 
and felt refreshed, after the fatigues of our 
journey. As we were wandering over those 
Eden-like plains, we came in contact with a 
river, whose crystal waters were wide and 
deep. It was so wide that neither of us 
could see to the other shore. As we walk- 
ed along the banks of this lovely stream, it 
became more narrow and shallow, until we 
arrived at the point for our separation. I 
felt that I must cross the river. Our hearts 
grew sad. and we sat down in silence 
a long time on the bank of the stream. 



THE SACKED HOL r B. 



215 



At last I said, "See! see! sweet sister, I am 
almost home. Look how narrow the waters 
have become that separate me from my 
long-sought home in heaven" I then 
thought yon exclaimed, "Not yet ! not yet ! 
O, Amelia, you must not leave me to wan- 
der through this world alone. I cannot let 
you go." I then said, Ci Dearest sister, come 
and go with me to that better land.'' To 
which you replied, " I cannot go now : my 
woEK is not yet doxe. I have a thorny 
lane to pass through. It is not only beset 
with briers and thorns, but wily serpents 
lie secluded along the path to charm and 
destroy innocent and unsuspecting travel- 
lers. O, Amelia, will you leave me to 
travel it alone, without your aid!" This 
was a moment of intense feeling and anxie- 
ty with us both. I wanted to cross the riv- 
er very much, yet my love for you was so 
strong, I resolved not to forsake you. "We 
then fondly embraced each other, and I felt 
happy again. I then awoke, suddenly, 
while standing on the bank of the river. It 
was some time before I could persuade my- 
self that it was not real, Now, my dearest, 



216 



THE SACKED HOUS. 



what must we infer from this vision ? There 
seems so much reality in all this, that I do 
feel more willing to live for your sake, if I 
can aid you in any way. 

Yet, dearest, why are you so unwilling to 
give me up? There are others who could 
serve you hette?\ but never love you more, 
than your Amelia. If I am taken first, I 
know God will sustain you. His grace is 
sufficient for every emergency of life. God 
has often answered my prayers in your be- 
half. At one time I had many fears about 
your future welfare. God has graciously 
removed all my fears. If / should die soon, 
God has assured my heart all will be well 

with vou. 
■i 

I know we shall meet in heaven. Glory 
to God for the hope of the Christian. O, 
there is much even here, in these "low 
grounds of sorrow/' to make a happy heart. 
Christian fellowship, and communion with 
God. I know you prize these privileges 
very highly. I thank you for your prayers 
and words of kindness and sympathy. 
Your desire to share a part of my persecu- 
tion and sorrows, evinces a depth of true 



THE SACKED H0UB. 217 

sisterly feeling and affection, seldom found 
on earth. I could never again doubt your 
love for 

Your unworthy but affectionate 

Amelia. 



letter xxrrr 

Piqua, June, 1853. 
My Dear Amelia: — This is a calm and 
delightful morning. I have read and re- 
read your last interesting epistle. It has 
encouraged my fainting soul. It is full of 
sympathy and affection. Your beautiful 
^vision" has made a deep impression on 
mv mind. It was truly a remarkable one, 
and no doubt contains an unrevealed mean- 
ing. I assure you I cannot interpret it ; 
but the day is not far distant when we shall 
fully understand it. I have made the 
whole matter a subject of prayer. I have 
had many heart-struggles. If I know my 
own mind, I think I could stand on the 
bank of that cold stream, and wish you a 
most triumphant passage across its turbid 
waters. I could not be so unfeeling or self- 
ish as to wish your life prolonged to aid me 
in my christian race. God knows your 

death would be a bitter cup to me. But> as 
918 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



219 



yon have appropriately remarked, "his 
grace is sufficient for any emergency? 
When I dwell, as I often do, of late, on your 
many deprivations and sore trials, I feel that 
it would be sinful to wish them lengthened 
out by your continuance in the body. But 
then again, I feel that were you again re- 
stored to health, and permitted to labor a 
few years longer in your Master's vineyard, 
it would redound to the glory of God. 
Dear sister, while you desire to depart and 
be with Christ, which is better — to remain 
in the flesh is needful for us. But I bow 
in cheerful submission to the will of my God 
in all things. 

I have once more been urgently solicited 
to mingle with the crowd at " Yanity Fair." 
I allude to the Eovers' Concert. It was a 
bait by the enemy to lead my soul from 
close communion with God. It did not suc- 
ceed. I feel like consecrating myself wholly 
to God. 

I regret I have been so unfaithful. It is 
always a solemn question with me, at the 
close of every week, — "Have I lived in 
view of eternity and sudden death ? ' 



220 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



To-day I have had a thrust from the ene- 
my, but like Bunyan's Pilgrim, I betook 
myself to the weapon called cc All Prayer." 
When it is wielded by the most puny arm, 
it does efficient work. Thanks be to God 
for the christian's armor — it is far superior 
to any earthly panoply. 

Let me still share in your fervent prayers. 
Believe me that I still cherish for you an 
undecaying affection. 

Your affectionate 
Sallie. 



LETTER XXIV. 



Piqua, June — , 1855. 
My Deadest Sister Sallie — 

u is there a land where the loved ones ne'er sever, 
Far off in some region where joys live forever : 
Where Pleasure, and Friendship, and Peace never 
ceasing, 

And knowledge, and wisdom, and worth are increasing? 
is there a land where the storms never lower, 
Where sorrow, and sickness, and death have no power, 
Where anguish, and darkness, and doubt are excluded, 
Corrupters and spoilers, the impure and deluded ? 
O is there a land where the pure gushing fountains 
Pour forth their clear streams from the hill and the 
mountain, 

Wending through the green groves and the fair sunny 
bowers, 

Delightfully sweet with the perfume of flowers ? 
O ! is there a land of such exquisite splendor, 
The noon and the sunbeam no brighter can render, 
Where shining one's bow mid the glory that's flowing 
From God and the Lamb — they are with rapture 
adoring ? 

There is such a land — 'tis the pearl of creation, 

Far off in yon bright region it holds its bright station ; 

' Tis the liope of the Pilgrim when fainting he dies ; 

' TlS THE REST OF THE RANSOMED HIS HOME IN THE 

SKIES." 

The above beautiful lines express most 
fully the feelings of my heart, this morning. 
O how I sigh for a better country. I have 
been enabled to lean my weary head upon 
my dear Redeemer's breast. In contem- 

221 



222 



THE SACKED HOUK. 



plating the future, I often forget the present. 
Jesus has again soothed and calmed iny 
fears, and gently wiped my flowing tears. 
I never enjoyed religion as much, or prized 
it more highly than I do now — yet a 
mournful sadness has taken possession of 
my soul. I am feeble in body, and may not 
live long. I have committed all to God. 

I have more than ever felt the importance 
of this declaration: " Whatsoever thy hand 
findeth to do, do it with thy might ■ for 
there is no work, nor device, nor know- 
ledge, nor wisdom in the grave whither 
thou goest." I have been spending the last 
half hour in arranging my t5 old letters/' 1 
have carefully preserved all that you have 
written to me. When I am called away to 
a happier clime, they shall all be at your 
disposal. In looking over my 61 Diary," I 
have been tempted to destroy it — it appears 
to contain so little that would be of any 
benefit to those who survive me. I cannot 
find time to write in it regularly — and then 
i cannot write as freely and fully as when I 
am addressing you. Now one word more 
about mv letters. Bro. Gaddis has often 



THE SACKED H0UK. 



223 



requested me to leave some written account 
of my experience ; but I have never been 
able to write it out. Yet I have felt deeply 
impressed that I should give to the world 
my testimony. My experience is all con- 
tained in my letters addressed to you. and 
it is my desire, that should the life of Bro. 
Gaddis be spared, that you should finally 
place them in his hands to be disposed of 
as he may think best. 

Tour affectionate 

Amelia. 



CHAPTER VIL 

Haying given enough of the regular cor- 
respondence between Amelia and her young 
friend Sallie, to show how graciously God 
revealed his goodness to them at their Sa- 
cred Hour, I will now furnish the reader 
with a number of extracts from the letters 
and Journal of Sallie, to show the astonish- 
ing progress that she made in the divine 
life, and her unreserved dedication to the 
cause of her blessed Lord and Master. 

EXTRACT FROM JOURNAL. 

"Feb. 19, 1853. God has abundantly re- 
vived his work in this city. I have not 
only been permitted to witness this wonder- 
ful work, but to engage in it personally by 
pointing the weeping penitent to Christ. 
Praise God, that he has deigned to use such 
an unworthy instrument in so good a cause. 
Should God spare my life, it shall be spent 
in this good work. O, it is a work an angel 
might covet. Over four hundred have join- 
ed the M. E. Church and enlisted under the 
banner of King Jesus. Hundreds have felt 
his saving power. Glory to God for Re- 
224 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



225 



tivals. Now as a great weight of respon- 
sibility rests upon all the old members of 
the church, God forbid that any who have 
lately started should be turned out of the 
good way by my example 

"I have commenced the year 1853, deter- 
mined to be a better christian. I have 
formed some new rules for the regulation of 
my christian course. I have resolved to 
commit to memory a passage of scripture, 
each day, for meditation and prayer. I have 
already found this a profitable plan 

iQ For some months past I have been meet- 
ing a dear sister — Amelia , at half 

past one o'clock, every day, at the throne 
of grace to pray for purity of heart. We 
have also been engaged in reading the 
New Testament, two chapters, at our Sacred 
Hour of prayer, every day. I also read the 
Old Testament, night and morning. God 
being my helper, I am determined not to 
omit any religious duty, then I need never 
be afraid of backsliding. I have had many 
6evere conflicts since the commencement of 
this year ; but the Lord has delivered me 
out of them all. Hallelujah to God ! 

" June 5, 1853. — Since my last record, God 
15 



226 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



has watched over me and preserved my life 
among strangers, and returned me in safety 
to my happy home. My own home, at this 
time, seems a faint type of our Eden above. 
The birds are warbling their sweet notes of 
praise to their Maker, and my glad heart 
would fain join in their delightful worship. 
My full heart exclaims, in the language of 
the poet — 

• for a thousand tongues to sing 
My great Redeemer's praise/ 

"My pathway is strewn with flowers, my 
cup of happiness is filled to overflowing. 
4 I have agoodly heritage.' I am surround- 
ed by a warm circle of christian friends to 
cheer, sympathise and encourage me. "Why 
should I ever murmur or give up to a dis- 
contented spirit? 

"To-day I have been permitted for the first 
time to come around the sacramental board 
with my dear parents. Bless the Lord. 

1 The fellowship of kindred minds 
Is like to that above.' 

May we all taste the riches of his grace, 
and make an unbroken family in Heaven. 



THE SACKED HOUK. 



227 



Since the communion, a deep solemnity has 
pervaded my soul. Never before did I so 
fully realize by blest experience 

■ That Jesus died for me.' 

May I feel more and more, every day, that 
religion is a personal matter — that God 
looks at the heart and not the outward ap- 
pearance. O, with what delight I recall to 
mind the happy hour when I first felt my 
sins forgiven. It was May 13th, 1852, 
about sunset. That was a happy hour 
when I was born into the kingdom of God. 
I shall call it my spiritual birth-day, and 
tiy and observe it in a religious manner. 

"I still find fresh delight in the story of 
the cross. It can never grow old. The 
service of God is a thousand fold more de- 
lightful now than when I first started. 
May I be a successful instrument in the hands 
of God, in persuading others to " forsake 
all and follow Christ." O, there is every 
thing beautiful and elevating in religion. 
It refines the feelings, and purifies every 
thing with which it comes in contact. 
***** 



228 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



"I have been enabled to adhere strictly to 
the rules which I laid down in the begin- 
ning of this year — ' To commit to memory, 
daily, one verse of scripture — to read the 
Old Testament in the morning, and the New 
Testament at noon and in the evening. 
And when possible I have retired to pray, 
at half-past one o'clock, for ' full conformi- 
ty to the will of God.' I want to love him 
supremely, but a lack of faith keeps me 
from grasping the prize. Lord, increase my 
faith, and may I soon know for myself that 
" the blood of Jesus cleanseth from all sin." 



SACRED HOUR. 



EXTRACTS FROM LETTERS TO AMELIA. 

"March 8 ? 1853. — Without are clouds 
and gloom, but thank God, in our cheerful 
little parlor I can quietly seat myself, and 
talk on our interesting theme — Jesus and 
his never- failing love and goodness to our 
souls. I praise God for thus uniting our 
hearts in the dearest ties of christian fellow- 
ship. I feel that I can never be sufficiently 
thankful for implanting in your heart the 
desire to c build up and encourage 3 one of 
the most unworthy lambs of the flock. I 
am fully conscious that he has owned and 
blessed 'your humble efforts? God has 
providentially thrown us together. Let us 
then, strive to improve these heavenly priv- 
ileges. 

'•This has been a day of calmness and 
peace to my soul. 

* The soul that on Jesus has leaned for repose, 
Hell never, no never desert to its foes/ 

229 



230 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



He is as ' the shadow of a great rock in a 
weary land.' We can go to Him and un- 
bosom all our griefs, and receive sympathy 
and comfort, such as no earthly friend could 
bestow. I was much drawn out in prayer 
at our Sacred Hour to-day, and realized the 
presence of my Savior. My poor heart was 
made to rejoice in his smiles. Our chapters 
were very good, 3d and 4th of 1st Peter, 
especially the 4th chapter, 12th, 13th and 
14th verses. 

"I am glad you have left it for me to pro- 
pose the next course of reading in the New 
Testament. 1 have found our present course 
so profitable that I desire to continue it. I 
should like to begin again at Matthew. I 
have no change to mention in connection 
with it. If my dearest Amelia can suggest 
anything that would be profitable I shall 
gladly acquiesce. I have been reading, 
morning and evening, mostly in Psalms, 
and frequently in other parts of the Old 
Testament, which I find instructive and 
pleasant. Let us strive to be equally fa- 
miliar with all of God's precious word. 

" I have had an encouraging conversation 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



231 



with our good Mother Eayner, upon ! Ex- 
tire Holiness. 5 She gave me much light 
upon the subject. It is not information I 
need so much as a ceaseless energy. I fear 
I often Hay down my v:eapons' > when I 
ought to wield them vigorously in this glo- 
rious cause." 

%%%%%% 

" I intended to devote this afternoon to you, 
but I have concluded to go to Xew School 
church with father and mother. They seem 
so well pleased to have sister Jenny and 
me go sometimes. Eev. Mr. Putnam, from 
Greenville, is to preach for them. He is 
stopping at our house ; so you see I am busy 
enough. I love to make all 'ministers feel 
at home in my father's house, I care not of 
what name 

"I have procured the first number of the 
' Beauty of Holiness J and have read ma- 
ny of the articles with deep and heart-felt 
interest. The contributors are men of tal- 
ent and ability, and battle nobly for this 
persecuted, Bible doctrine, I wonder how 
any one who believes any pail of the bible 
can deny the doctrine of sanctifi cation, — it is 



232 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



so plainly taught^ by our Savior and his 
apostles. 

u The meetings this week have been well 
attended. We had a good speaking meet- 
ing on Monday night. There was great 
promptness manifested in taking up the 
cross. I had the will to speak but not the 
opportunity. Bro. Gaddis gave us one of 
the best sermons on Thursday evening that 
I have listened to for some time. His text 
was in Hebrews, 6th chap., 17th, 18th and 
19th verses. I believe he preaches better 
on week nights than on Sundays. • 

" Since writing on Tuesday, my feelings 
have varied, — sometimes rejoicing in God 3 
at other times dejected. I find that to over- 
come such a tendency to sadness, I must 
praise God for all he is doing and has done 
— then the clouds will break away, and 
the sunshine of his countenance beam upon 
me. Satan has, of late, been harrassing me 
to neglect prayer. I have never before had 
to contend with him on this point : but I 
will stand my ground. My heart is fixed to 
serve the living God. 55 



THE SACKED HO UK. 233 

" Tuesday, March 15th. — While journey- 
ing on in ray weary pilgrimage below, I 
gladly retire from the eye of the world, 
and with no other eye but that of an impar- 
tial God resting upon me, would commune 
with you of my joys and sorrows, hopes and 
fears. While surrounded by a sinful and 
wicked world, I find I have much to con- 
tend with. The road at present seems beset 
with lions, difficulties and discouragements. 
Would to God I could feel otherwise. I 
have just returned from a season of prayer 
in my chamber, but the clouds were not 
dispersed as usual. Well, if I did not 
sometimes travel under a cloud I would not 
know how to appreciate the sunshine. I 
have much to encourage me — much to 
praise God for. He has raised up some 
sincere friends to aid me Zionward, among 
whom I number you. 

t; I wonder what my dear sister will say 
when I tell her of my appointing a prayer 
meeting for my Sabbath school class, at their 
own request, on Saturday afternoon, at three 
o'clock, at our house Our lesson last Sab- 
bath was on prayer, It will be a cross 



234 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



for me to take charge of it, but I look to 
God for grace and strength to perform my 
duty. I will never shrink, no never. I 
have not decided whether it will be best to 
continue it long. If it can be conducted 
rightly I will ; but my scholars must be quiet 
and serious, or I will not continue it. They 
must also learn to be cross-bearing chris- 
tians ; and I will do all I can to accomplish 
that desirable object. 

" Wednesday Evening. — I have glad news 
for you now. The clouds have been 
gently dispersed . by my Saviour, and I have 
gone singing in my heart, if not audibly, 
during the whole day. Last night, while 
locked in the arms of slumber, that beauti- 
ful hymn, 4 How firm a foundation,' came 
to mind. It seemed I could see it in a new 
and more beautiful light ; and it was applied 
so sweetly to my heart. I grasped the 
promise, and was made unspeakably happy. 
O, how good God is to me. I can but 
serve him? O, how I love him ! I know I 
love him this night above every other ob- 
ject. I can say. Lord, take me now and 
forever — all I have and am — use me as an 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



235 



instrument, in thy hands, of doing good — 
time, talents, influence, everything. O, 
may we together, in spirit, rejoice in the 
light as He in is the light, and be made ev- 
ery whit whole." 

% % # * # # 

C4 March, 31st. — As I have just arisen from 
addressing a throne of grace, I would now 
spend a short time in conversing with you. 

f O, if our fellowship below 

In Jesus be so sweet, 
What height of rapture shall we know, 

When 'round his throne we meet.' 

" How refreshing to turn from the dull rou- 
tine of cares and perplexities to our Saviour 
and hold sweet communion with him. My 
soul is filled with a calm, abiding peace. 
Jesus has said, ' My peace I give unto you, 
not as the world giveth.' Blessed be 
God! how different from earthly peace. 
One who enjoys so much of this peace 
need not have it described — if it were pos- 
sible to find language to express it. I re- 
joice to find myself in such a sweet peace 
of mind once more. Eecently the waves 
have been tempestuous around my little 
bark. But thank God, Jesus, the pilot 



236 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



of Gallilee, is at the helm, whispering, 
1 Peace, be still. 5 Yes, 

' Peace, troubled soul, thou needst not fear, 
Thy great provider still is near/ 

He is ever near, and O, he is so good. 

" Praise God, we can get a glimpse of the 
goodly land by faith, to cheer us in our 
journey homeward. Thank God, 6 There 
shall we see his face, 5 and c His name shall 
be written on our foreheads. 5 What exalted 
privileges we enjoy, as christians. Let us 
prize them highly. You inquired if all my 
scholars were converted. They are not. 
Seven are, and two are not. I have ap- 
pointed another meeting for next Saturday, 

in connection with C K 5 s class. 

The scholars were desirous that we should 
unite. Our last meeting was deeply affect- 
ing. They w r ere all greatly blessed in tak- 
ing up the cross, and had great liberty giv- 
en them. Never have I enjoyed myself in 
any prayer meeting as I did last week, in 
uniting with them. 55 

# * # * # # 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



237 



Under date of April 3, 1853, she thus 
pours out her full soul : 

" Deaeest Sistee: — My full heart would 
fain find language to express my feelings. 
• • • • I praise God for thus uniting our 
hearts. With a heart overflowing with joy 
and gratitude to God, 1 have read your 
6isterly letter, and that inestimable rich 
4 Legacy of the Christian's? What need I 
care for the poor dross of earth — for its 
wealth and splendor — its vain amusements ; 
or even its favor or friendship ? I court not 
its fickle smiles — let it frown, or curse, or 
ridicule — need I care. My Father is in 
Heaven, and, O ! what a home awaits me 
if I am only faithful I Thank God, dear sis- 
ter, there are crowns, and we shall wear 
them ; palms, and we shall wave them. How 
sweet the music of heaven ! We shall join the 
chorus of those bright beings, and tune our 
harps afresh before His throne. Yes, there 
are now some, dear to us, who have gone 
before, and mingle their anthems with the 
blood-washed throng, and we will soon join 
them. How soon God alone knows; but 
should he, in his infinite wisdom, call you 



258 THE SACKED HOUR. 



first, it will be one more tie to bind me 
to heaven — one more inducement to run 
the whole length of the celestial road. 
0, my pathway never seemed to be nearer 
the borders of the New Jerusalem than 
now. I had a delightful season in pray- 
er. Jesus revealed himself to my waiting 
soul. I could gladly go to earth's remotest 
bounds to publish the glad news of a Sa- 
viour's death and resurrection. O, what 
boundless, infinite, wondrous love that 
brought him from glory to " poor, sinful, 
fallen earth, to suffer the ignominous death 
of the cross! The theme demands an 
angel's tongue. Well might we be lost in 
wonder, love and praise in view of his 
amazing goodness to us. And should we 
refuse to tell of his kind dealings with us 
when our friends request us so to do? O, 
no. Dear sister, I hope you will not shrink 
from this duty. It would manifest an un- 
grateful spirit not to acknowledge what he 
has done for you, and you know not how 
many poor, weary souls you may revive 
by so doing. He has certainly not dealt 
with others as with you, but has, in a very 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



239 



peculiar manner, revealed his love and 
power to you. You have been permitted to 
walk and talk with him, as it were. O, 
then, continue to tell of His good dealings 
towards you ; — keep nothing back that will 
promote his glory, and profit others." 
# % % # # # 
c *May 15th, 1853. — I feel like adopting 
the salutation of good old Paul — 'Grace to 
you, and peace, from God our Father, and 
the Lord Jesus Christ. 5 My mind has run 
back, this morning, to those good old clays 
of primitive Methodism, when the simplici- 
ty of the gospel characterized all their 
words and actions, before such worldly 
mindedness crept into the church, robbing 
many of her members, to a great extent, of 
that deep -toned piety which should charac- 
terize them, as followers of the meek and 
lowly Jesus. I have tried during the last 
week or two to watch the avenues of my 
heart, that no such spirit should find an en- 
trance there. Let prayer be the sentinel, 
and what need we fear. Let us ever trust 
to this weapon, while engaged in the fiery 
combat between sin and holiness. God 



240 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



is our strong tower — our shield and buckler 
• — a rock of defence to all who flee thither 
for safety in the hour of fiercest temptation 
and danger. Let us think more upon the 
Omnipotence of out God. Who is like 
unto Him? Who but He can protect 
in our weakness and console in our sor- 
row? He is abundantly able to deliver 
from every foe, and to keep what we have 
committed to his care. Let us, then, sur- 
render all to him who hath died upon Cal- 
vary to save such unworthy creatures as 
we are. 

" My views of Heaven, by faith, have been 

delightful this morning I went 

forth alone to ponder upon His goodness, 
and O, how richly I have been repaid — as 
I gazed with thrilling joy upon the works of 
God, — I find true happiness and de- 
light in wandering forth to look ' through 
Nature up to Nature's God.' The warblers 
of the forest were singing praises to Him 
who dwelleth on High, and my heart respond- 
ed, 'Let everything that hath breath praise 
the Lord.' Do I not hear you respond 
Amen! Amen! O how shall we begin 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



241 



to tell of his amazing goodness and merer, 
in placing us where we have so much to 
admire and love. Everything in nature 
presents a beautiful aspect to the eye of the 
christian.'' 

A few days subsequently she writes as 
follows, of a visit to the grave of a depart- 
ed friend : — 

" I visited the grave of my sweet depart- 
ed sister, Jane Kennon. before sunrise this 
morning. 1 had a refreshing season in pray- 
er. The glories of the upper world seemed 
near, very near. By an eye of faith I be- 
held her sainted spirit hovering over me. to 
urge me onward in my christian career. I 
fancied I could hear her whispering her 
parting words to me 5 1 Meet me in Heaven, 
dear Sallie. 5 It stirs me up to renewed ac< 
tion. when I think of my glorious reward, 
if faithful. I long to join those dear friends 
who have gone before, and unite my voice 
with theirs to swell the glad anthem to Him 
who has washed and redeemed us by his 
most precious blood. Hallelujah, for the 

prospect of immortal glory. 55 

* * % & # * 



2-12 



THE SACRED HOUR, 



Under date of August 2d, she expresses a 
longing desire for a fresh baptism in the 
following laguage: 

" Having a leisure moment, I seize my pen 
to devote it to you. I thank God for what 
I am permitted to enjoy this morning. My 
soul is calm and peaceful — my confidence 
in God unshaken. When I arose this morn- 
ing I had such a sweet season in prayer and 
new energy given me to begin the work of 
another day. I am striving to live closer 
to Christ — to walk with God. In the lan- 
guage of the poet, 

' So shall my walk be close with God, 

Calm and serene my frame ; 
So purer light shall mark the road 

That leads me to the Lamb.' 

Our Diary verse has also proved a source of 
encouragement. Glory be to God ! His prom- 
ises are all ' Yea, and Amen.' He says, 6 1 
will pour out my Spirit upon all flesh.' O, 
then let us come in the Omnipotence of 
faith to the mercy seat — present the prom- 
ise and claim the blessing. It is our privi- 
lege to enjoy more of the love of God than 
we do. You know yesterday we both ad- 



THE SACRED HOUB. 



243 



mitted that we did not enjoy as much of 
the life and power of religion as in times 
past. Now our God is the same yesterday, 
to-day and forever — unchangable. O, let 
us try and take a fresh start for glory. Let 
us wrestle in prayer as Israel of old did. 
Let the prayer of our hearts be, 'I will not 
let thee go, except thou bless me, 5 and we 
will prevail. 1 feel my leanness of soul, 
and I am not alone in this conviction. Ma- 
ny of my young sisters have also spoken of 
the spiritual dearth in the church. Does it 
not, then, behoove us to lift up the warning 
voice and arouse our comrades ? In the lan- 
guage of Isaiah, to fi cry aloud and spare not. 5 
This dull apathy is more to be dreaded than 
fierce temptation. Many are the snares of 
Satan — and this sometimes proves too suc- 
cessful. By what small degrees do we fre- 
quently lose our interest and zeal in this 
good cause, and get under dark clouds. 

' Come Holy Spirit, Heavenly Dove, 

With all thy quick'ning powers, 
Kindle a flame of sacred love 

In these cold hearts of ours.' 

t4 I had a rejoicing time yesterday after- 
noon, after you left me, in singing and pray* 



244 THE SACKED HOUK. 



ing, — a little prayer meeting to myself. 
Truly we have ' rich clusters of grapes by 
the way.' 53 

# # ^ # * * 
" August 16th. — I have again been per- 
mitted, through the mercy of God, to enjoy 
our Sacked Hour. The prayer of my heart 
is, Lord, 

' Take my poor heart, and let it be 
Forever closed to all but thee.' 

My heart goes out after more and more of 
the divine image of my blessed Savior. I 
want to walk in the footsteps of Jesus con- 
tinually. How cheering to the heart of the 
believer that we have a Mediator, even the 
Man Christ Jesus. If we sin we have an 
Advocate. O, how graciously does God meet 
the wants of his children. It should lead 
us to consecrate ourselves daily to his ser- 
vice. I thank God that a sweet sense of 
comfort flows into my soul, while 4 promis- 
ing for God to live and die. 5 May his will 
be done in me in all things. Give me but 
grace to endure, and I care not what trials 
I may have to undergo. Thus far have I 
been kept sustained by His almighty arm. 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



245 



* Trust in the Lord, 5 is more than ever my 
motto. 

"Saturday Evening. — I have been out 
once more gazing upon the works of our 
Heavenly Father, as displayed in the coun- 
try. My heart glows with gratitude and 
love to see what a delightful world we live 
in. How much do we owe to God for all 
these blessings, which contribute so much to 
our happiness. Everything lovely is scat- 
tered with a lavishing hand around our 
pathway. I often think, while gazing with 
delight and rapturous joy upon the beauties 
of earth, what will heaven be ? — A thousand 
times more beautiful. How my heart 
bounds for joy to think our sojourn here will 
be so short, and then we will be freed from 
6ickness, care and pain. 4 All tears shall be 
wiped away. 5 We will never more have a 
troubled spirit and an aching heart. Glory 
be to God ! Joy unbounded — eternal bliss 
— will then be our portion. There we will 
be re-united in far more endearing bonds, 
never again to be separated. My soul is 
happy in prospect of seeing my adorable 
Saviour. 5 ' 

# # * # * # 



246 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



Under date of August 31, she thus writes : 

"The language of my heart in thinking 
of God's goodness is, 'Praise the Lord! 1 

0, that I may continually meditate 

on his love to such a sinful unworthy crea* 
ture. I deserve nothing at his hand but in- 
finite punishment . — If justice alone were ex- 
ecuted what would be my fearful doom. 
But blessed be God 5 I have only to suppli- 
cate a throne of grace, and all my wants 
are supplied. Yes, through the all-atoning 
merits of our blessed Savior, we have re- 
demption and salvation. Tes, glory be to 
God, salvation from sin — not partial — but 
entire salvation from all sin! 

K I have again been striving to lay all 
upon that consecrated altar, that sanctifieth 
the gift, but this hard, stubborn, unbeliev- 
ing heart will not give up. Doubts come 
in and rob me of this inestimable blessing. 
But if I die, I will perish at the footstool of 
sovereign mercy. 

I have been busily engaged this week in 
arranging a society to aid in the conversion 
of our boatmen on the canals and rivers 
and western waters, to be called the Young 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



247 



Ladies' Bethel Society; and as we begin 
quietly, we have to solicit members, and get 
up an interest in this work. It requires 
much time and effort. Many obstacles must 
be surmounted, but we will try and not be- 
come disheartened. We ask your earnest 
prayers for our success. We shall meet ev- 
ery two weeks, and adjourn with religious 
exercises. All denominations are to unite- 
The articles which we cannot sell we can 
box up and send to the men engaged as 
missionaries, whose salaries are hardly suffi- 
cient to keep body and soul together. Is ow 
is not this a glorious work ? I do feel re- 
joiced that I can in this way be useful. We 
will accomplish some good if we will pray 
in faith for God's blessing to rest upon us." 
%%%%%% 
"Saturday Afternoon, Sept 17, 1853: 
How gladly do I embrace a lew fleeting 
moments at the close of this week, to write 
of God and his gracious dealings to my pcor 
wayward heart. In reviewing 

the hours now forever gone, I can joyfully 
record rich blessings received from on 
High. O, thank God, it has not been in 



248 



THE SACKED HOUB. 



vain that I have tried to devote myself in 
youth to the service of the Almighty ? I now 
experience the freedom of a child of God. 
Numberless benefits are poured from the 
unfailing source of his unbounded love 
upon me, the imworthiest of his creatures. 
"Where, O, where, shall such a poor, lisp- 
ing, stammering tongue, find adequate lan- 
guage to sound his praise abroad ? Glory 
be to God ! when our voices are hushed in 
death — in heaven above, c in a nobler, 
sweeter song, we'll sing his power to save.' 

• • • • The clouds that obscured my spiritual 
sky on Monday, when I saw you last, have 
all disappeared beneath the warming beams 
of the sun of Righteousness. My motto 
still is, ' Trust in the Lord* unwaveringly. 

• • • • At our Sacred Hour, which I have 
regularly observed, I found fresh delight, 
and have been strengthened in my journey 
to that bright Canaan that awaits the wea- 
ry, toil-worn pilgrim. My thoughts have 
dwelt much, during the past week, on the 
glorious reward laid np for us in heaven, 
among the redeemed and ' spirits of just 
men made perfect.' Our Scrip- 



THE SACRED HOUR. 249 



ture Verses for daily food have been very 
profitable to my soul during the past week. 
While about my work it did me good to 
think of them. O, let us, in the coming 
week, take a fresh start, remember our 
vo'cs, and strive to let our light shine daily. 
Let us continually be on the stretch for a 
fresh baptism from above. Then, should 
we be called hence to join the anthems of 
the sanctified Host on High, we will be fully 
prepared to enter in and enjoy the rest that 
remaineth for the people of God. God bless 
you ever, my dear sister, is the constant 
prayer of Sallie." 
% % % * * # 
"PiauA, Sept. 18, 1853, Sabbath Noon : — 
I feel calm and confiding. I have feasted 
upon your good letter. 1 often think your 
letters have been more profitable to me 
than one- half the sermons I have heard. 
If I could only put in practice what is con- 
tained in this morning's letter, I would be 
a much happier Christian, and would exert 
a better influence in behalf of those truths 
Christ left with his disciples. Sometimes I 
feel so sad in view of the low standard of 



250 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



piety in my own heart, that I become al- 
most discouraged ; but when I feel my own 
weakness most, then it is that God reveals 
himself in great powei, and sweetly whisp- 
ers, ; I will strengthen thee, yea I will up- 
hold thee.' To whom can I go for support 
but to Jesus? He is my all in all. I do 
love him better than ever this morning, 
and I will endeavor to overcome every ob- 
stacle. I pray God for a deeper spirit of 
self-examination, that I may renounce all 
sin — everything contrary to his holy will, 
and be entirely conformed to his image in 
all things. 

"My soul is happy, and I can say, glory, 
yes, glorg he to God ! I could shout in 
view of the glorious reward that awaits the 
faithful. c Now will I tell to sinners what a 
dear Saviour I have found.' "When the 
soul is all alive with love to God it is no 
cross then to sing, or pray, or talk to the 
unconverted. iSTo ; then it is our meat and 
drink to do our Master's will. I will strive, 
by the grace of God, to fight valiantly the 
battles of the Lord from this time hence- 
forth, till he shall call me Home. If 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



251 



you are taken first, I will meet you in 
heaven — 4 my span of life will soon be 
done. 5 .... Your request shall not be 
unheeded. I shall count it as the dearest 
of privileges if I can be with you in 
your last moments. It will better fit me for 
my work, I trust. Yes, dear one, send for 
me, if it be at midnight. 0, let me be with 
you to smooth your pillow, imprint a last 
kiss, and close your eyes in death. But 
should it be me that is to go first, you shall 
be with me. Life is uncertain. I know 
not what awaits me, but I do know that I 
shall gladly welcome death at any hour. It 
has lost all its terrors to me. 

" Tuesday Xoon: What depths of redeem- 
ing love have I tasted since I last wrote on 
Sabbath ! I did not think such blessings 
were in store for me. My constant prayer, 
for several days previous, had been, ; 
Lord, reveal the cause of my leanness ; show 
me where I have erred ; reveal inbred sin.' 
How powerfully was my prayer answered 
on Sabbath evening, through the instru- 
mentality of Bro. Caven, by a sermon from 
these words of St. Paul: 4 Be careful for 



252 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



nothing, but in everything by prayer and 
supplication, with thanksgiving, let your 
requests be made unto God, and the peace 
of God that passeth all understanding shall 
keep your hearts and minds through Christ 
Jesus.' He spoke of the fearful consequences 
of Christians indulging in an over-anxious 
spirit about worldly schemes ; being trou- 
bled, and burdened, and care-worn with 
pressing duties — work laid out, to be done 
and pushed through as if the salvation of a 
soul depended on the all-exertion of the 
moment. Now do you not see, from my 
last letter, that I was pursuing just such a 
course of folly ? And I was reaping the 
fruits of it at class. I wondered at my 
want of enjoyment. True at times I felt 
peaceful and calm, but not that depth of 
enjoyment that was usual, and I was ready 
to blame every one sooner than my own 
sinful, depraved heart. But our Heavenly 
Father did not leave me. He providentially 
taught me to see where I was standing. I 
was ready to cry out, c Lord, save or I per- 
ish,' and, like Peter of old, it was only by 
grasping the Saviour's hand that I was de- 



THE SACRED HOUR, 



253 



livered. O, praise God for delivering grace! 
Glory be to God for his great goodness to 
me! 55 

* # # # # 

" October 9th. — I haye just finished a 
letter of exhortation to a young friend who 
is about leaving our city as a bride, and go- 
ing to a new home, among strangers, to fill 
a new sphere, and enter upon new duties, 
and begin anew to bear the cross as a 
christian and young convert, with an un- 
converted husband. Her feet are in a slip- 
pery place, and I felt deeply impressed that 
I must sound the trumpet, and give the 
alarm, — warn her of the dangers in the 
way that she could more effectally guard 
against them ; and in obeying the guidings 
of the spirit I have been richly blessed. 

O, WHAT A LUXURY TO DO GOOD TO WORK 

for God. We frequently get our pay be- 
fore the work is completed. If we watch 
for opportunities we can begin at home — at 
our very doors — to sow the seed of life. 
We need not go to China or the islands of 
the sea, to instruct the souls of men. O, if 
more of this spirit was felt and carried out 



254 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



amongst us, soon, yes, very soon, would the 
milliniel year be ushered m, in meridian 
brightness. Methinks I can already see 
faint gleams of the approaching day. The 
gray twilight of morn has succeeded the 
night of the dark ages, and little by little 
does the glorious Sun of Righteousness un- 
veil his face, until a rapturous song shall 
burst unitedly from millions of redeemed 
souls, ransomed of the Lord. 
"I never contemplate this scene by faith 
but it reinvigorates my sluggish soul. I 
long to see the time hastened 6 when all men 
shall know the Lord,' when ' the heathen 
shall be given to him for an inheritance, 
and the uttermost parts of the earth for hi3 
possession. 5 Let us strive to keep this glori- 
ous period in mind, and by prayers and con- 
tinued effort, strive to bring about this hap- 
py state. If every christian was a working 
christian, strong in faith, persevering in 
every effort, the time would be short inaeed " 
###### 



CHAPTER Vm. 



EXTRACTS FROM JOURNAL, 

I am truly sorry that I can only give to 
the readers of the Sacred Hoctr some brief 
extracts from the " Journal " and corres- 
pondence of Sallie in 1854. Her letters 
are all very good, and would be read with 
great profit — but are quite too long to be 
inserted in this brief memorial. 

" January 1st, 1854. — At the commence- 
ment of 1854, 'Here I raise my Ebenezer' 
— c Hitherto the Lord hath helped me.' O, 
for one lofty song of praise to Him who 
hath so mercifully sustained me, in sickness 
and health, and through all 6 life's varied 
scenes.' Blessed be God for favors, tempo- 
ral and spiritual. His mercy and grace 
have been richly showered upon my soul. 
Upon this solemn day I would covenant 
afresh to live and die for God. I desire by 
my walk and conversation this year to 
show to all with whom I may associate, 
that I have been with Jesus. O, that I may 

255 



256 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



possess all the mind that was in the Savior. 
I want to be a more humble, self-denying, 
cross-bearing christian. My highest ambi- 
tion HENCEFORTH IS TO BE HOLT IN HEAET AND 

life — to live at the feet of Jesus. May I 
be constantly employed lite the Savior 
while here on earth, going about "Doing 
Good n to the souls as well as the bodies of 
my fellow- creatures. My motto shall hence- 
forth be 5 To serve God on earth and enjoy 
him in heaven.' I want to serve him zeal- 
ously, icatchfidly and prayerfully — joy- 
fully to embrace every opportunity of being 
useful to all with whom I may associate. 
I hope my influence will always be on the 
right side — * The Lord's side.' 

"Should my life be spared this year, I 
hope to labor earnestly and faithfully in the 
"Bethel Cause" and Sabbath School. 
Both of these objects are dearer to my soul 
than life itself. If it be the will of God I 
should live — well — if not — Glory be to 
God, then will my glad soul 

' Soar a^rar, 
To sing His praise in endless day.' 

It is not a matter of choice with me to live 



THE SACKED HOUPc. 



257 



or die. I can say from the fullness of my 
soul, 'Not my will, but thine, O God, be 
done.' 

"During the past year I have been enabled, 
through the assisting grace of God to live in 

the DAILY OBSERVANCE OF ALL MY RELIGIOUS 

duties. My plans for a growth in grace I 
have generally executed — such as stated 
seasons for prayer— reading the scriptures 
and committing a portion of the same to 
memoiy, etc. I have learned, to progress in 
religion a regular system must be adopted, 
and rigidly adhered to, in every condition 
of life. Great peace of mind has attended 
my efforts thus far in my christian career, 
such as I never enjoyed in the service of 
Satan. I am more firm and settled in my 
belief and religious principles than I was 
a year ago. I am still striving to lay all 
upon the altar. I long to experience the 
cleansing efficacy of the blood of Jesus. 
O, that I was made every whit whole. ] 
feel more and more the great need of this 
inestimable blessing, but unbelief continual- 
ly robs me of it. I have now covenanted 
to pray twice each dav, at 1% o'clock and 6 
17 



258 THE SACKED HOUR. 

P. M. ? until I have the witness in my heart. 
O, that I may strive more earnestly to ob- 
tain it. Lord keep me faithful until death, 
and then I shall be safe in heaven with oe- 

8US." 

* # # # * 



CHAPTER IX. 



EXTRACTS FROM LETTERS TO AMELIA. 

"January 1st, 1854. — I have remained 
at home this evening, to give you a little in 
formation respecting my progress in the 
'good old way. 5 I rejoice that 4 '54' finds 
us both on advanced ground. It glad- 
dens my heart to hear of your being strength- 
ened and refreshed on your journey to 
'Mount Zion, the city of the living God.' 
We have both been in a rejoicing mood. 
God grant our song of triumph may extend 
through the entire year. I have resolved 
to be a holier and better christian, and have 
been richly blessed in forming this resolu- 
tion. Now that my covenant vows are reg- 
istered upon high, I intend, God being my 
helper, to keep them inviolable — sacred. 
I have resolved to be a more cross-bearing 
christian ; and I am going to attend our fe 
male prayer meeting for this purpose — to 
be perfected in all my christian graces. I 
trust, if spared, 1855 will find me fully 

259 



260 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



prepared and equipped for the service of 
my Lord and Master. 

"~\Ye had a precious season yesterday in 
praying for holiness. God was with us in 
a powerful manner, raising to a flame all 
our good desires 

" I long to be a burning and a shining 
light in the church of God, and it is now 
my continual aim, daily to let my light 
shine before the world. Thank God for 
overcoming, victorious faith, that jnabied 
me to renounce the alluring world, with all 
its vanities, in the days of my youth. And 
now 1 am but a % pilgrim and sojourner' on 
earth. I journey to mansions above, pre- 
pared for you and me. Let us be faith- 
ful. We will begin anew to pray and work 
for God. Thank God, you can pray for 
the advancement of this glorious cause, even 
though not permitted to work. Pray often- 
er and more earnestly. Our Sacred Hour 
is still faithfully observed, and I am often 
richly blessed in retiring at that time. But 
I must bid you adieu, and O, may God 
si lower copiously his love upon your heart." 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



261 



"March 1st. — After a long silence, I 
again embrace a quiet, fleeting moment to 
speak of our good old theme. What other 
subject ever employed as many pens as re- 
ligion. Blessed be God, though it had its 
existence with the creation of our earth, it 
is still new, and never grows dull to the heart 
of the christian. In reviewing the past, 
from the fall of man down to our present 
time, what cause do we see for one continu- 
al anthem of praise and gratitude. Well 
might the poet say, 'Eternity 5 s too short to 
litter all thy praise. 5 But on the other side 
of Jordan, we will join in the never-ending 
song of thanksgiving, — 'To him be glory, 
dominion and power, forever and ever. 5 
Man's redemption and salvation from all 
sin demands an angel's tongue. Poor lisp- 
ing, stammering mortals like us cannot give 
him glory as we should. God grant our hearts 
may, in future, be more attuned to praise. 
We are not sufficiently grateful for what we 
receive, — so much is bestowed continually 
that it seemingly hardens us in ingratitude. 
God forbid that it should be so with us. 



262 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



" I hardly know how to describe my con- 
flicts with the enemy of my soul, since I 
wrote last, — how artfully he has tried to 
entangle my unwary feet in his snares,— 
sometimes under one guise, and sometimes 
in another. But I can say with the pious 
Psalmist, 6 Out of them all the Lord has most 
graciously delivered me.' The greatest dif- 
ficulty I have had to contend with, in my 
short christian experience, of late, has been 
a wandering state of mind. When I 
turn my thoughts to prayer or meditation, 
on any religious subject, some foreign, un- 
congenial object or pursuit forces itself be- 
fore my mind, and ere I am aware of it, 
my thoughts are aloof from all that is good. 
I have been sorely perplexed with regard 
to it. I have prayed earnestly to be deliv- 
ered, for O, it is so trying to me 

You know what a curse God 

pronounced upon Israel for worshipping 
him with their lips, while their hearts were 
far from him. But such is not my case. 
God knows my heart. I come before him 
in sincerity, seeking his blessing, but some- 
thing quite trivial in its nature will, quicker 



THE SACRED HOCK. 



263 



than thought, draw off my mind. It is sel- 
dom any one thing in particular, but some- 
times like a flood, threatening to drown me, 
a multitude of objects will present them- 
selves, harrassing me in a most distressing 
manner, while I have to struggle and 
struggle to be freed from them. [ am assured 
this is a stratagem of Satan to ruin my soul. 
But the Lord being my helper, he shall not 
succeed. This promise is my stronghold, 
' There hath no temptation taken you but 
such as is common to man : but God is 
faithful who will not suffer you to be tempt- 
ed above what you are able.' jSTow do not 
infer from what I have written that I am 
robbed of enjoyment, for such is not the 
case. I am often on the mountain-top, and 
praise God with all my ransomed powers; 
but again and again does the enemy renew 
his attacks. I am almost persuaded by him 
sometimes, that I have been retrograding a 4, 
a fearful rate; but when the cloud passes 
over, then I am convinced that a backslider 
could not experience the fruits of the Spirit 
as I do — love, joy and peace." 



264 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



" Saturday Evening, April 6th. — Night, 
with her sable mantle, is gathering around, 
while the moon is shedding her pale light 
— inviting to meditation and prayer, where- 
by we may be better prepared for the duties 
of the Sabbath. When the lovely morning 
is ushered in, — 

' O may my heart in tune be found, 
Like DavicL's harp, of solemn sound.' 

God grant that my soul may be as calm and 
trusting on the eve of the Eternal Sabbath 

that awaits me, as I am now. O, how ar- 
dently I have wished that my departure 
from earth may be tranquil and happy — un- 
disturbed by harrassing cares. I hope no 
gloomy doubt may present itself to my mind. 
Then I shall fear nothing. I will not be 
afraid then to meet death, tlwughfar dis- 
tant from my dear and much loved mother, 
and affectionate sisters. A stranger's hand 
may wipe the sweat from my marble brow." 

"7? ^£ ^ ^ ^ 

'•Sabbath Evening. — The hour of twi- 
light has just passed. I have had a sweet 
time in singing good old hymns. Singing 
always stirs up my devotional powers, and 



THE SACKED HOUE. 



265 



when prayer and meditation succeed, I have 
good times. Mother and I had such a 
good social talk on experimental religion. 
She asked me if I honestly believed there 
were any persons now living who loved God 
sv.premely, and did nt>t cherish an idol of 
any kind in their hearts? 4 Yes,' said I, 
'I can most sincerely say there are such per- 
sons, and I think I am not deceiving my- 
self or deceiving others, when I say, I have 
not a single idol ! 5 She looked surprised. 
' I told her I was willing to part with every 
friend I had, if God saw best. I felt resigned 
to every dispensation of Providence ; I 
would most gladly welcome death as my 
best friend : I had ceased to feel any strong 
attachment to earth or earthly things — its 
honors or possessions ; I sighed for a quiet 
resting place in the grave. 5 In heaven I 
shall be freed from all cares and griefs and 
perplexities. This change has been wrought 
in my heart within the last few weeks, but 
it is all ordered, wisely. God knows what 
is best. Some persons would doubtless 
think me a fanatic or heart-broken — a per- 
son at my age to utter such sentiments — 
but no, I can say with Paul, 4 To depart 



266 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



and be with Christ is better than any thing 
that could befall me," 

* # # * * # 
" June 15. — The sun is shining so cheer- 
fully, all nature seems vocal with the praise 
of our Heavenly Father; and shall our 
tongues be mute I TTe, who have been re- 
deemed by the precious blood of his Son ? 
Let this be my constant theme, ' The Sa- 
vior died for me.' This topic has lost none 
of its beauty and freshness. I would wil- 
lingly go to the abode of the Hottentot, or 
the sable sons on the burning sands of Af- 
rica, to publish the joyful and glorious ti- 
dings of salvation, to wretched and ruined 
sinners. May the glad news of redeeming 
love, roll on % till like a sea of glory, it 
spreads from pole to pole/ I wish to be 
the messenger of salvation to sinners in a 
foreign land. Let my lot be cast where it 
may, so that I may but glorify God by bring- 
ing sinners to a knowledge of the truth. I 
now feel a sweet peace that I cannot describe, 
in laying myself, all I have, on the altar of 
consecration. Nothing is withheld; and 
though I do not feel the witness of its sane- 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



267 



tifying power yet on my heart, I know 1 
have freely given up all — reputation, 
toealih, honor, ease, fame — and I am wil- 
ling to leave my home, friends and kindred, 
and become a wanderer on earth, until death 
shall release me. It is true as my eye fond- 
ly rests upon this sweet home, which looks 
so very beautiful in the clear sunlight — 
the trees robed in luxuriant foliage and 
nature's minstrels pouring forth the sweetest 
songs that ever greeted human ear — while 
the air is laden with the perfume of roses — 
my heart clings to this loved home, where 
affections, dearer than life, have been cher- 
ished. I know that when far distant I shall 
miss the kindness that has ever been lav- 
ished upon me, by a tender, loving mother, 
and the best of fathers, and dear sisters too, 
who are daily showing me some additional 
proof of their attachment — and another 
adopted sister, whose image comes before me, 
her eye beaming with deepest devotion. 
Amelia, how can I ever leave you, dearest? 
My heart is filled with anguish when I look 
forward to our separation. But hush, our 
Savior will sustain us, and gently soothe 



268 



THE SACRED HO UK. 



our sorrows The Lord in mercy 

gave me such a friend because he saw I 
needed one, and now when I am fully es- 
tablished in the great truths of Christianity, 
and 4 equipped for the battle,' through your 
teachings, you ought to rejoice when I 
go forth to the great battle-field, the world, 
to attack sin in all its forms ; to battle for 
truth and religion. If God, in his infinite 
wisdom, sees fit to enlarge my sphere of 
usefulness, ought I not be thankful too, and 
praise him for an opportunity to 'spread his 
praise abroad, to earth's remotest bounds ? 5 " 

^ ^» ^* 4^ 

" Sabbath Morning. — I arose very early 
this morning, and with Julia, wended my 
way to 4 God's temple' — nature's church — 
the forest, and O, how my full heart broke 
forth in adoration and gratitude for all the 
mercies I enjoy. We sang and prayed and 
conversed on the goodness of God, and re- 
turned home rejoicing. 

" This has been a week of deep trials, but 
unspeakable joy. Religion is my chief sup- 
port and comfort. God gave me this prom- 
ise to cling to — 6 The Lord blessed Abra- 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



269 



ham in all things. 5 — 'He is no respecter of 
persons.' He is an impartial Father. I 
have the assurance that if I walk with God, 
as the aged Patriarch did, I shall be blessed 
in all things. O, what a glorious promise 
Let us journey on, the day declineth — 

' 0, turn not back ! 0, turn not back ! 

Though darkness veils the way before thee, 
Though clouds, with Sinai's darkness black, 

Seem bursting in their fury o'er thee. 

• turn not back, for mercy's rays 

Shall pierce the clouds of gloom and sadness , 
The bow of heaven shall meet they gaze, 
And fill thy heart with joy and gladness. 

' turn not back to folly's path, 

To seek the ways of worldly pleasure, 

Nor in forbidden courses stray, 

Nor set thy heart on earthly treasure. 

' turn not back from wisdom's voice, 
Which calls thy soul to joys undying, 

"Which bids thee in thy God rejoice — 
The powers of death and hell defying. 

' turn not back from Him who gave 
His life, that thou mightst be forgiven, 

And from his throne now stoops to save, 
And raise thy soul from earth to heaven. 

* turn not back ; the Holy One 

Now seeks within thy breast a dwelling, 
And when his work in thee is done, 
He'll give thee joys all thought excelling. 

' turn not back, and do not grieve, 
Nor madly tempt that, blessed Spirit, 



270 



T HE SACRED HOUR. 



Lest lie thy soul forever leave, 
Despair and anguish to inherit. 

' turn not back ; pursue the way 
Which leads to heaven's blessed portal, 

Where night gives place to endless day, 
And sorrows yield to joys immortal/ " 

% * # # % % 

44 November 6th. — Being all alone, I 
gladly embrace this fleeting moment to de- 
vote it to you — to speak of the kind deal- 
ings of our Heavenly Father toward me. 
He is ever good, but since yesterday morn- 
ing I have had such a constant flow of love 
in my heart, as I cannot describe — such 
heavenly peace : every breath was prayer, 
not" forced, but a natural out-giving of the 
soul toward God, just as we inhale the in- 
vigorating atmosphere surrounding us. How 
sweet to live thus — our entire being filled 
with the love of God — that it involuntarily, 
or without any effort of our own occupies or 
absorbs our whole thoughts. How easy to 
sink into the will of God — to burn with 
restless desire to win others to Christ. How 
easy to forsake all to serve him, as did the 
Israelites of old, with just enough for one 
day's sustenance — and to rely on God for 
what is needed for to-morrow. I love 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



271 



this thought as presented by Mother Ray- 
ner, with regard to temporal matters 
but when I view it in a spiritual way, it is 
exceedingly precious to me. Our heavenly 
Father, in his infinite wisdom bestows daily 
on us grace just sufficient to meet every 
want, sometimes a larger degree than at 
others, because we need it. Let us, then, 
praise him for what we enjoy. We shall 
never want any good thing, if we continue 
to look by faith alone to Jesus, in every 
trying hour. O yes, dearest, as you re- 
marked in your last sweet letter, let us ' al- 
ways keep our eye on Christ.' Would that 
I could ask you personally, if there is not 

'light ahead.' I know you too 

have been drinking deep from 4 salvation's 
wells.' I have prayed earnestly that you 
might be permitted to share the same de- 
gree of unspeakable joy that your unworthy 
sister has since love feast. We had a de- 
lightful feast at eleven o'clock preaching. 
Bro. Newson addressed us with great power, 
from these words, c I am not ashamed of 
the gospel of Christ,' etc. He has great 
liberty given him when in the sacred desk* 



272 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



O, it would warm up your soul to hear him. 
1 love him more and more. I missed you 
sadly at our sacramental occasion." 
# % # % % 

"November 18th.— The Lord has man- 
ifested himself to me in so many various 
ways of late, that I have felt almost like 
Elijah did, when concealed in the cleft of 
the rock, on Mount Horeb. My heart is 
full. I am swallowed up in a boundless 
ocean of love. I feel 

' Lost in wonder, love and praise.' 

Even while I have been writing this even- 
ing, my soul exults as if standing in the 
immediate presence of the 'Great I Am.' 
The ruling feeling of my heart is I am safe, — 
having entrusted all to my Heavenly Father. 
I have a sweet calm within my soul — 

nothing troubles me 

" 1 am trying daily to be 'crucified unto 
to the world, and the world unto me.' I 
have seen the vanity of all earthly things. 
I can say, welcome death, Til gladly ^go 
with thee. 5 " 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



273 



<; June 24th, 1855. — I feel like writing a 
few lines, as I may not have the privilege 
of a verbal communication with you, unless 
the clouds disappear, and this damp air is 
changed to a dry atmosphere. I have been 
trying to examine my latitude in spiritual 
matters — to see what has been my progress 
during the past week. I find myself, upon 
reflection, not altogether free from condem- 
nation. I see my short comings, wherein I 
have yielded to the tempter, but 1 thank 
God 5 I can come once more to the fountain 
opened in the house of David for sin and 
uncleanness. Yes, 

■ The dying thief rejoiced to see 

That fountain in his day, 
And there may I, though vile as he, 

Wash all my sins away.' 

O, how watchful should the child of God 
be. He is beset with foes within and with- 
out. But prayer is the christian's strong- 
hold. I have had delightful seasons of com- 
muning with my God. I have had free ac- 
cess and great liberty in presenting all my 
wants, also in pleading for my loved ones. 
O, how religion expands the soul with the 



274 



THE SACRED HCCJR. 



purest"- and most heavenly desires. It makes 
us feel that we partake more largely of the 
' spirit of Christ.' This is now my single 
aim — to become heavenly-minded, to dweL 
as it were, in the immediate presence of 
my Savior, that the ; Old Man with his deeds 
may be put off, 5 and that Christ Jesus, the 
Lord, may reign in and rule over me. 
# # # * # 
4i How I long to visit our dear old class- 
room, this morning, and join you in its sa- 
cred exercises. I would love to hear what 
our unchangable heavenly Father has been 
doing for you in spiritual things. But I 
will set the hours apart to devotion, and 
hope to be a happy Mary at the feet of Je- 
sus. I can pray for you all at class, and be 
with you in spirit. The Lord make this a 
high day in Israel, that you may long re- 
member it. • • O, let us live, to-day, 

near the hallowed cross, that our souls may 
be filled." 

The following letter of condolence was writ- 
ten to Sister Cavin, widow of the late Rev. 
James Cavin, of our conference, a short 



THE SACKED HOUE. 



275 



lime before Sallie left home to attend the 
Water Cure Establishment at Berlin Hights. 
It reveals a beautiful trait in her character. 

c; PiqrA, June 23, 1S55. 
" My Dear Melissa : — Perhaps you will 
think it rather strange in your friend Sallie, 
to commence a correspondence with you so 
an ceremoniously. But I have been away 
from home often enough to know that let- 
ters from our friends are seldom unwelcome. 
If I am intruding, excuse me this time. 
I was sitting at my work a little while ago, 
when I happened to think of you. I was 
wondering where you were, and how you 
and little Kate were getting along. Then 
remembering I had a leisure hour to devote 
to some one, I felt like it would be a pleas- 
ure to write you a few lines. Perhaps when 
Katy is asleep some of these long afternoons 
you may possibly think it a small task to 
give me some of the many incidents of 
traveling or visiting. Or. perhaps your 
aching heart, oppressed by grief and deso- 
lation, might find relief in unbosoming your 
feelings to some one. I hope you will be 
free at any time to address me. You know 



276 



THE SACRED H0UB. 



I prize your friendship, and would love to 
console and cheer yon, as much as any one 
could, though it is not much that any earth- 
ly friend can do in the deep sorrows that 
have almost crushed you. Yet I have found 
a sweet sad pleasure in pleading at a throne 
of grace in your behalf. My entire sympa- 
thies , in short, have become enlisted in pray- 
ing for you. There is an attachment form- 
ed such as can only be felt by the humble 
followers of Jesus. I feel that we have one 
Father — one motive in living — either to 
suffer or do the will of God. What a noble 
purpose ! How necessary that we keep this 
aim constantly in view. Never lose sight of 
it. Could our friends who have entered the 
spiritual world above, be permitted to re- 
turn to us, how earnestly would they exhort 
us to live for God— ' to spread scriptural ho- 
liness over these lands,' by our daily exam- 
ple and continued efforts. O, do not de- 
spair, or think your sphere of usefulness 
now closed, because the one whom you 
loved so dearly has been taken from you. 
No, indeed, rather gird yourself anew for 
the conflict. In laboring for you]' Master 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



277 



your own soul will be watered, you will be 
endued with more strength, and in such 
heavenly employment you will feel less 
keenly the loss you have sustained. The 
more spiritually-minded we become, the 
nearer our relationship to the sainted ones 
above. 

"I trust you have gotten the victory over 
those temptations you spoke of, and though 
you felt somewhat disappointed, — by striv- 
ing to be entirely submissive to the way God 
saw fit to order it, you will be blessed. In 
eternity all these things will be made plain 
to us. It is all enveloped in mystery and 
darkness now. But O, then it will all be 
explained. Perhaps your husband may be 
permitted then to unfold it all to you. 6 Blind 
unbelief is sure to err, and scan his work in 
vain. God is his own interpreter, — and he 
will make it plain. 5 Then while he strikes 
his tuneful lyre in praise to God, your voices 
will join together in the song, 'Worthy, 
worthy is the Lamb, to receive honor, and 
power, and glory.' " 



CHAPTEK X. 



TEE DYING SCENE AT BERLIN BIGHTS. 
" How Bright ! How Bright ! How Bright ! " 

She began to decline in health about the 
first of May — but was not confined to her 
room for any length of time. Some days 
she would feel pretty well. She never mur- 
mured. She manifested a patient submis- 
sive spirit in all her illness ; she never com- 
plained of suffering much pain — yet I doubt 
not her sufferings at times were great. Her 
friend Amelia says, "I was with her a great 
deal during her illness in this city. I often 
observed to her that I thought she was 
worse and suffered more than she would 
tell." She replied, " Amelia it is true I do 
suffer some, yes much at times — but I have 
so much to be thankful for. Surrounded 
with all the comforts of life — I have the 
best attention from my Ma — and kind Sis- 
ter — and the best of Father's — and then 
God is so good. O think how many far 

more worthy than I, suffer from day to day 

273 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



279 



without any of the comforts that surround 
me? would it not be wrong for me to 
murmur % " As long as she had sufficient 
strength, she attended class — this was al- 
ways her Bethesda — -she enjoyed this means 
of grace very much. Her seat never was 
vacant, if it were possible for her to at- 
tend. After she was unable to get to clas3 
or preaching, she would husband all her 
strength to teach her Sabbath School 
class. She was faithful to the last. She 
appeared impressed early in the spring, that 
her time on earth would be short — and she 
would frequently speak of it 3 with a firm 
unwavering trust in God. She committed 
all into his hands — willing either to live or 
die. Her Christian graces shone brightly. 
Her enjoyments ran in a deeper channel — 
her whole soul was on the stretch, to be 
wholy cleansed from all sin. She would 
often remark, " O do not pray for me to get 
well, till Christ the work has fully wrought. 
I want to be Christ-like — to have his im- 
age stamped upon my heart — that all my 
walk and conversation, may reflect his di- 
vine character. I am willing to be count 



280 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



ed singula!' for Christ's sake. If I get well, 
I know I shall be a better Christian. Afflic- 
tion is a good school — I have here learned 
what I could not have learned under any 
other circumstances." Her dear friend 
Amelia writes to me as follows : " The last 
Sabbath she spent in Piqua, (July 9th,) 
not being able to get out to church — I 
went to her room after love feast. I 
shall never forget that interview. It was 
the last of anv length we had together. 

She was calm and happy, and then told 
me, she felt her work on earth was 
almost done. ' 0,' said she, 6 1 have done so 
little for Christ — and perhaps shall have a 
starless crown — but I have tried to live a 
Christian, and I know God does own me for 
his child. I should be willing — yes it would 
be far better if my Master would now release 
me. what pain, what suffering, and toil 
and care, I should be freed from ! My con- 
flicts would all be over. But I have dear, 
dear friends* who are dearer than life to 
me. It would be hard to give you all up — 
but Christ loves me — and I know I love 
him better than all earthly friends. Aiue 



THE SACKED HOUK. 



281 



iia.I have been examining my heart to-day 
to see if there is any selfish motive that 
would cause me to desire to live. I know 
that all I want to live for is to do good, that 
I might accomplish something for Christ — 
I have such unwavering trust and confidence 
in God, that I can commit ail into his 
hands — if he has a work for me to do, I 
knovr he will raise me up again — If not 
he will raise up others, that can and will 
accomplish far more than I could.' '0 
Sallie, you surely will get well again, we 
cannot spare you.' £ Amelia, you must not 
feel so — God knows what is best, do not 
feel so sad ; do not you remember the good 
verse we have so often repeated together — 

■ And lien to that bright world we rise, 
To claim our mansion in the skies, 

Above the rest this note shall swell, 
Our Jesus hath done all tilings well. 1 

Now he will do all things well. O let us 
trust him. What a mystery surrounds us — 
I have thought that you would be the first 
one to hail me in that bright world above, 
but now 1 think I shall be one of the happy 
escort, that shall hover around your dying 



282 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



eoucn, until your spirit shall burst from its 
clay tabernacle, and then welcome you to 
the courts of bliss. O think what a shout 
we shall have in glory. Cheer up! cheer 
up ! it will not be long that we shall be sev- 
ered. Now, Amelia, read a chapter and pray 
with me before you leave. I have just 
been thinking how much I should love to 
have our good brother Spencer, (Rev. Rob- 
ert 0. Spencer who had been her pastor the 
previous year.) to pray with me. He was al- 
ways so kind - — dear, good man, I know 1 
shall meet him in heaven.' 

44 1 then took up her bible and read the 5th 
Chapter of 2d Corinthians, reading the two 
last verses of the 4th chapter in connection. 
4 For our light affliction which is but for a 
moment, worketh for us a far more exceed- 
ing and eternal weight of glory. While we 
look not at the things which are seen, but 
at the things which are not seen: for the 
things which are seen are temporal, but the 
things which are not seen are eternal.' 
"While I was engaged in reading, she ap- 
peared as though she had caught a glimpse 
of the Celestial city. Her face glowed with 
heavenly radiancy, such as I never beheld 



THE SACRED H0UB. 



283 



en mortal. When I had finished, she ex- 
claimed, i 0, I do know that if this earthly 
house of my tabernacle were dissolved, I 
have a building of God, a house not made 
with hands, eternal in the heavens." ' O, 
glorious hope! ' O, that I could tell you 
how this hope wells up in my inmost soul. 
Yes, and I shall see Jesus. O, how I 
want to see my Savior ! ' 

"In prayer my whole soul was drawn out 
that she might be fully prepared for the last 
conflict. I felt deeply that I would soon 
have to give her up. Aly heart bled with 
anguish at the thought. I prayed that she 
might have sustaining grace, — that as she 
was going away, among strangers, perhaps 
there to die, that God would raise up friends 
for her, although a stranger among a strange 
people. But O, especially did my soul ag- 
onize that if she was called to pass through 
the cold waters of Jordan, that she might 
'fear no evil, 5 'knowing that Jesus was with 
her, and that his rod and staff might comfort 
her through, — give her a triumphant de- 
parture and a glorious entrance into the 
courts of endless bliss. 



284 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



" When I arose from my knees, she twined 
her arms around my neck. 4 Amelia, 
would to God we could lie down and die to- 
gether. that our freed spirits might at 
once burst their bonds, and that we might, 
at the same moment, gaze upon Jesus' 
face. But it cannot be — yet you will soon 
come.' Thus I left her, triumphing in the 
blood of the Lamb. 

" On Tuesday morning, I again called to 
see her. She was then preparing to leave 
on the next morning. 4 "Well,' said she, 4 1 
have had some conflicts since I saw you on 
Sabbath. But I have given up all to God, 
and sweet peace now reigns within. He 

WILL DO ALL THINGS WELL.' TheSC Conflicts 

were on account of her going from home, 
among strangers. She feared her mother 
would suffer uneasiness about her. 4 1 know,' 
said she, 4 that God will raise me up friends 
at Berlin Hights.' Another thing she fear- 
ed was, that she would likely be deprived 
of religious society. She then remarked, 
; I intend to be a christian and work foe 
God. Perhaps I can do some good: I will 
by to do so.' 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



2S5 



ki On Wednesday morning. July 11th, she 
left Picjua, for Berlin Eights. 1 again saw 
her, jnst as she was entering the cars. She 
appeared cheerful and happy. 4 0, 5 said 
she, 6 1 feel much better this morning. N ow 
Amelia, if you were only going with me, it 
would be so pleasant. But you cannot go 
— I am satified. I have your Bible, (we 
had exchanged Bibles,) and I know you will 
be with me in spirit, — but better than all 
this, Jesus is with me, and I know Ee will 
be with me. Good bye, dear Amelia. 
Isow do not grieve or suffer any uneasiness 
on my account. All will be well. Good 
bye, dear Amelia. 5 These were the last 
words she ever spoke to me. O, can I ever 
forget them? JSo, never. 55 

On her arrival at Berlin Hights, she 
wrote to her friend Amelia the following 
descriptive letter: 

" Crystal Fountain Retreat, 
" Berlin Bights, July 13th, 1S55. 

"My Dear Amelia: — Baving arisen two 
hours before our breakfast time, I will em- 
ploy a portion of the time in communion with 
you. I feel so well this morning, I am 



286 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



quite rested from my long journey. I wiL 
give you a brief description of my trip. 
" It was a lovely morning to travel, though 

for a few hours, rather cold for comfort. 
The scenery, as we approached Urbana, was 
really delightful, and I enjoyed the ride as 
far as Bellefontaine. After passing this 
point, the country, for an extent of fifty 
miles, is too flat to attract much attention. 
I did not venture up into town, when we ar- 
rived at Urbana, as the depot is in an out-of- 
the-way place, and I found it necessary to 

husband all my strength At nine 

o'clock the Express train came whizzing up, 
and we darted off with the swiftness of an 

arrow to the north. I saw much to 

amuse and interest me on the way. But it 
was not until the Lake broke upon my as- 
tonished gaze that I became fully aroused. 
On coming in we rode along the Lake shore, 

where the road is made across the Bay 

It was near noon when we arrived at San- 
dusky. We sallied out to the Hotel, some 
six squares distant. I called for a room 
and laid down till near five. After dinner 
we traveled back to the Depot to get aboard 
the Toledo and Cleveland cars. The scene 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



287 



if along the Lake Shore road is truly mag- 
nificent. How glorious to the child of God 
to oehold the works of his Heavenly Father. 
Man's best achievments fall very far short 
of what the Great Architect has wrought. 

" Again we plunged out, as it were, into 
the Lake, on a track extending two or three 
miles. It was near sunset, and I never be- 
fore witnessed one of such surpassing beau- 
ty. To be fully appreciated it must be en- 
joyed. My descriptive powers could not do 
justice to it. 

u When we arrived at ' Berlin Station, 5 we 
found a carriage in waiting. Tired as I 
was, my bosom thrilled with emotions of 
pleasure, to behold nature scattering her 
bounteous gifts in such rich profusion. 
Away went our prancing steeds over hill 
and valley for about three miles. At last 
we drew up before the extensive buildings 
of Crystal Fountain Retreat. We went 
speedily down a winding, graveled avenue, 
leading to the piazza. 

"I wish I could convey to your mind an 
impression of the cordial and warm recep- 
tion I met with from the Professors and in- 



2S8 



THE SACKED HOUR, 



mates of the institution. The atmosphere 
that I breathed was one of pure kindness — 
tender greetings and pleasant inquiries, 
Bmiles and cheerfulness. Contentment is 
pictured on every countenance, continually, 
Every one aims to please every other. There 
are no aristocratic distinctions made here, 
although the higher classes are more gene- 
rally represented. Intelligence and refine- 
ment mark all our intercourse. We have a 
Melodeon, with which we entertain our- 
selves, and a fine choir of Musicians, that 
give concerts daily, principally in the even- 
ings, — except when varied by lectures by 
Jfrof. Gatchell. 

"Mrs. Gatchell is Matron, or Lady Phy- 
sician, and you could not but love her. 
She is amiability itself, and a thorough 
scholar. There is something peculiarly in- 
viting and sweet in her manners. 

" My room is No. 16, near the front and 
back stairs. 1 am very retired. If I feel 
lonely I take my sewing and go to either sit- 
ting room or parlor. I am in the third sto- 
ry — it being my choice, so that in my re* 
ligious duties I may not be interrupted. .1 



THE SACKED HOUK. 



289 



have not found a christian here yet, though 
1 have no doubt there are such. When I 
do, I will select a room-mate. The rooms 
are arranged lor two persons. The furniture 
is plain, but very comfortable. 

44 1 cannot tell whether I shall get better 
under the treatment or not. It is always an 
experiment. Sometimes different diseases 
are developed, which are lying dormant in the 
system. I may be somewhat prostrated at 
first, but when I do recover, I hope to be en- 
tirely free from disease of any kind. I find 
it bracing and invigorating. I have not suf- 
fered at all from pain of any kind since my 
arrival, and now feel pretty well. 

" 1 have not enjoyed myself quite so 
well as at home, having so much to call off 
my attention, but now that I am settled, I 
hope to be a 'burning and shining light. 3 
Caughey, I find, is the most suitable book I 
could have brought. I am under great obli- 
gations to you for such a gift. I sing, read 
and pray, and-try to keep in a right state of 
mind., 

44 1 need not urge you to write, but will 

look for a letter soon. As my paper is full 
19 



290 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



and I am tired, I will bid yon good-bye 
for this time. You need feel no uneasiness 
for Your affectionate 

Sallie." 

During her stay at Berlin Hights we have 
but little account of her spiritual enjoyments. 
She was not able to write much, and when 
she did, she wrote but a few lines at a 
time, relative to her bodily health. She ap- 
peared to improve a little during the first two 
weeks she was there, but took a violent at- 
tack of inflammation of the stomach. She 
suffered very much for a few days, but she 
was so careful of her dear mother's feelings 
that she would not suffer any one to write 
to inform them until she again got better. 
u A strange Jtand" she said, " loould alarm 
them? The Saturday previous to her death 
she wrote a few lines to her sister Jenny, 
and informed them that she was slowly 
recovering — able to sit up for an hour at a 
time; also that she wanted for nothing — 
that they were all very kind to her. But 
remarked, — " It is not like home. I often 
think of you all, and of your little acts of 
kindness many times during the day. I 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



291 



want to get home again, and think I will be 
able to return in a week or so, if I do not 
relapse. Do not let mother worry about me. 55 
On Sabbath she walked out into the yard, but 
was taken worse again in the evening. Her 
disease soon prostrated all her physical ener- 
gies. She suffered much, but bore it all with- 
out complaining. On the next Tuesday, her 
mother left Piqua to go and see her. She 
arrived at Berlin Hights at 6 o'clock, P. M. 

Sallie, fearing that her mother would not 
arrive before her dissolution, in the after- 
noon called for her pen, and wrote the follow- 
ing note, with the peculiar courage of a dy- 
ing christian : — 

" Tuesday, August 7. — I want to be ta- 
ken home and buried in my father's lot. 
Tell mother to do as she pleases with all 
my clothes. I do not fear death ; 1 have 
tried to live a Christian, and I think I can 
die one ; I should like to live to see all my 
friends in Piqua, and have them come 
around me and say good bye to them. — To 
my betrothed — be faithful to God, and 
preach Christ and him crucified to the world. 
Doctor Gatchell has frequently expressed a 



292 



THE SACRED HOUR, 



different opinion from mine concerning the 
nature of my disease. I am now perfectly 
satisfied that he was right in this matter* 
It is not in our hands. I am perfectly sat- 
isfied with all that Doctors Gatchell and 
Hill have done. I feel very grateful to all 
for the kind attention I have received, and 
the interest they have manifested in my 
welfare — Tell Doctor Gatchell to make me 
die easy— Good by, Mrs. Kichardson.— 
" Signed, Sallie K. Caldwell." 

She then calmly waited the coming of 
her Lord. At one time she said 5 "Doctor, 
how long will I last?" Answer: "Not 
long." She then replied, " O, I am glad, I 
will soon be better off than any of you — - 
free from trouble, free from care. Try and 
get religion, all of you, and be able to fol- 
low me and then added, " Though I walk 
through the valley and shadow of death, I 
will fear no evil ; his rod and his staff will 
comfort me." "How long now, Doctor?' 
Answer: "From a half an hour to perhaps 
one hour." She then inquired the time in 
the afternoon. It was four o'clock. To 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



293 



Mrs. Gatchell she said, " Yon have been 
like a mother to me. I have not expressed 
much ; but I feel very grateful. You will get 
your reward in another world — Thank the 
nurses for their care." The sands of life 
were now swiftly running out. Looking at 
her hands, she said, <c How strangely my 
hands feel ! Is this death ? " The Doctor 
told her he hoped she would live till her 
parents arrived. She calmly replied, " I 
want to see them ; but they cannot die for 
meP When her mother arrived she lay in 
a stupor. Her mother took her by the 
hand, and said, u Sallie, if you know me, 
press my hand ? " The dying daughter gave 
the desired token, but could not speak. 
After some little time she revived, and 
drank some water. The power of articula- 
tion returned, and she said, " Why did I come 
back ? I was so happy." They then asked 
her if she knew her mother; she replied 
Ci O, yes, I know ma." Eer mother then 
said, " Shall I kiss pa for you?" She an- 
swered, " Yes ; did he not come?" Her 
mother answered, " No." She then said, 
" Kiss sister Jenny ; O s Jenny ! Tell Ee- 



294 



THE SACRED HOUB. 



becca and James they cannot die without 
religion." 

Her work was now finished, and the 
heavens were opened to receive her disin- 
thralled spirit. The ocean was crossed 
in perfect safety. The dark curtain of 
time was drawn aside, and she was per- 
mitted, without a' vail, to see the smiling 
face of her dear Redeemer, and she then 
exclaimed, " Lay me back ! Let me go ! 
O, How Bright! O, How Bright! O, 
How Bright ! " 

"Living light. had touched the brow of 
death," and Sallie K. Caldwell "fell asleep 
in Jesus." 

On the Wednesday after her death, her 
remains were brought home by her parents 
to Piqua, and on Thursday at 2 o'clock, P. 
M., they were taken to the Green Street M. 
E. Church. The Rev. Joseph Newson,who 
was then in charge of the station, improved 
the deeply solemn occasion by an appro- 
priate discourse from the following beautiful 
and comforting words : " For if we believe 
that Jesus died and rose again, even so 
them also which sleep in Jesus, will God 



THE SACKED HOUR. 295 

bring with him." 1st Thessalonians, 4, 14. 
Her mortal remains were then followed to 
the Cemetery by a large concourse of her 
friends, and deposited in the earth, in the 
spot where she desired she should refet until 
the morning of the resurrection. 

Dear reader, in fancy I think I see you 
on returning from the grave of this pious 
young lady, exclaim in the language of 
Scripture, 66 It is better to go to the house of 
mourning, than to go to the house of feast- 
ing ; for that is the end of all men, and the 
living will lay it to heart.' 5 

" Weep not for her ! Her span was like the sky, 
Whose thousand stars shine beautiful and bright, 

Like flowers that know not what it is to die, 

Like long link'd shadeless months of polar light; 

Like music floating o'er a waveless lake, 

While echo answers from the flowery brake : 
Weep not for her ! 

" Weep not for her ! She died in early youth, 
Ere hope had lost its rich, romantic hues, 

When human bosoms seem'd the home of truth, 
And earth still gleamed with beauty's radiant dews. 

Her summer prime waned not to days that freeze, 

Her wine of life was not run to the lees : 
Weep not for her ! 

"Weep not for her ! By fleet or slow decay 
It never grieved her bosom's core to mark 

The playmates of her childhood wane away> 
Her prospects wither, and her hopes grow dark. 



296 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



Translated by her God with spirit shriven, 
She pass'd, as 't were on smiles, from earth to heaven ■ 
Weep not for her ! 

" Weep not for her ! It was not her's to feel 
The miseries that corrode amassing years, 

'Gainst dreams of baffled bliss the heart to steel, 
To wander sad down age's vale of tears, 

As whirl the withr'd leaves from friendship's tree, 

And on earth's wintry world alone to be : 
Weep not for her ! 

" Weep not for her ! She is an angel now, 
And treads the sapphire floors of Paradise, 

All darkness wiped from her refulgent brow, 
Sin, sorrow, suffering banish'd from her eyes. 

Victorious over death, to her appears 

The vista'd joys of heaven's eternal years : 
Weep not for her ! 

" Weep not for her ! Her memory is the shrine 
Of pleasant thoughts, soft as the scent of flower 

Calm as on windless eve the sun's decline, 
Sweet as the song of bird's among the bowers 

Rich as the rainbow, with its hues of light, 

Pure as the moonshine of an autumn night : 
Weep not for her ! 

" Weep not for her ! There is no cause for woe ; 

But rather nerve the spirit, that it walk 
Unshrinking o'er the thorny path below, 

And from earth's low defilements keep thee back ; 
So when a few fleet swerving years have flown, 
She'll meet thee at Heaven's gate — and lead thee on . 
Weep not for her ! " 



CHAPTER XT. 



SHE HATH DONE "WHAT SHE COULD. 

" She trod an open but unfrequented path to immor- 
tality." 

Dear reader, if you have carefully pe- 
rused the Sacred Hour as far as the 
Dying Scene at Berlin Hights, I know 
you are prepared to exclaim with me — 
" She hath done what she could." And 
may I not add, "She kept back no part of 
the price." From the time of her spiritual 
union with the Savior until her happy exit, 
she counted it her highest honor to labor in 
his vineyard. Every where she went she scat- 
tered the seeds of love and toiled unwearied- 
ly to win souls to Christ. Her religious cor- 
respondence with her friend Amelia re- 
Teals in her "hidden life" traits of charac- 
ter and "gifts" that any christian might 
" earnestly covet." The correspondence of 
these two devoted females contains their 
daily experience, and if all of it were pub- 
lished, it would make four volumes instead 

297 



298 



THE SACKED HOUB. 



of one the size of the Sacred Hour, and 
would be read by thousands with deep and 
thrilling interest. But as Amelia is still 
living, I have only given a small part of it. 

I hesitate not to say, that the experience, 
correspondence, and mutual attachment of 
these two christian sisters are the most re- 
markable I have ever read. I can only 
speak now of the one that has " ceased from 
her labors on earth." The Sacred Houb 
of prayer was never forgotten, until death 
removed Sallie to a land where prayer is 
turned to praise. While living she cherish- 
ed an undying love for Amelia. In many 
of her letters she speaks of her heart being 
filled with " emotions of endearing love for 
all the followers of Christ but especially for 
Amelia." Atone time she says, "I often 
praise God for raising me up such an assist- 
ant in my religious course: I often think I 
should have gone back to the world if you 
had not kindly taken me by the hand. Un- 
der God, you have been instrumental in 
making me a decided christian. O, then 
do not be discouraged in your efforts to en- 
courage others to do good. I never can 



THE SACKED HOUB. 



299 



thank you enough. God knows my heart. 
I love you dearly. When we meet in eter- 
nity, to range the fields of bliss, on the 
banks of the river of life, I hope then to be 
able to tell you how thankful I feel that 
Gocl ever put it into your heart to take such 
a deep interest in my Salvation. Our 
christian friendship has been greatly blessed 
of God. How many precious seasons we 
have had in prayer and reading the bible. 
And while encouraging each other, we have 
been richly blessed. Yea, always doubly 
blessed. I have no language to express all 

I FEEL." 

Her whole conduct was marked with sin- 
cerity, humility, meekness and great frank- 
ness. She w r as naturally possessed of an 
unobtrusive and timid spirit, but victorious 
faith enabled her to be 

" Bold to take up, and firm 

To sustain, the consecrated cross." 

She loved the house of God, and was reg- 
ular in her attendance upon all the means 
of grace. She loved the class-room, and 
was always in hor place. She frequently 



300 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



speaks of her " dear good old class- leader, 
Father Kirk," and how grateful she felt for 
the interest which he constantly evinced in 
her spiritual welfare. In her sweet letters 
she often speaks kindly of her different Pas- 
tors, and all our dear brethren in the minis- 
try who have been sent to labor in Piqua — 
Brothers Marlay ? Newson, Spencer, Yan- 
Cleve, Lawder, Kendall, and the lamented 
Cavin, who has gone home to glory. 

She had a burning desire to do good, to 
be useful. At one time she remarks, " Ke- 
cently I have had some remarkable answers 
to prayer. I have been ardently praying 
that Providence would open an additional 
field of labor for me to engage in, this sum- 
mer. I feel that I am not answering the 
end of my creation, to sit at ease at home 
while so many are perishing for the lack of 
mental, moral and religious training. My 
conscience reproves me for my past indo- 
lence. I must do something. Well, 
thank God, another field of missionary la- 
bor is thrown open in our midst, and I 
am determined to enter heartily into the 
work." 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



301 



Sabbath School. — This was the place 
above all others where she loved to labor. 
At one time she writes: 

" My soul was filled, in a peculiar manner, 
with the love of God, while engaged in 
pointing my dear Sabbath-school scholars 
to 6 the Lamb of God, that taketh away the 
sins of the world. 5 O, if faithful I shall 
have some 'bright gems in my crown of re- 
joieing in the day of the Lord Jesus. I 
shall continue to pray for their conversion 
and future usefulness." 

At one time, when quite indisposed, she 
says : — 

" Notwithstanding my illness I resolved 
to go and teach my Sabbath-school class. 1 
am very much attached to every one of 
them. I feel responsible for their being 
either on the side of the Lord or Satan. I 
know God does use me as an humble in- 
strument of doing good among them. They 
manifest a great anxiety to obtain a know- 
ledge of the Bible. Their very souls, at 
times, seem to speak through their bright 
eyes, and radiant countenances. At times 
they become deeply absorbed in the lesson." 



302 



THE SACKED HOUK. 



Previous to one of their large Sabbath 
School celebrations, she thus writes: 

" Last week I visited three hundred fam- 
ilies as one of a committee to aid in pre- 
paring for our Sabbath School celebration. 
I was almost exhausted. It was so extreme- 
ly hot. But God has kindly preserved my 
health. / feel willing to do anything in 
my power to promote the welfare of my 
Sabbath School class. It is now increasing 
in' numbers and interest every week, and I 
■feel under strong obligations with others to 
make an effort to amuse as well as instruct 
all the children once in awhile." 

She always studied her Sabbath School 
lesson with prayer, and went to her work in 
the right spirit. God blessed her labors to 
the good of her scholars, and often watered 
her own soul. In July, 1853, she writes 
thus : — 

" Of late I have had many calls, and in dif- 
ferent directions, but it is all to do good. I 
have also had a great deal of company, 
leaving me less time for retirement. This I 
find a great hindrance ; yet I should feel 
thankful for the opportunity afforded me of 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



203 



influencing thern to do good and be good. 
I do not want to hide my light under a 
bushel. Lord, deliver me from selfishness. 
I have given myself to God, and I want to 
- be an instrument in his hands of doing 
good. I desire to lie in his hands as clay 

in the hands of the potter My 

heart has felt so light ever since Sabbath af- 
ternoon. While teaching my Sabbath 
School class I received a great blessing. I 
think I never had such liberty before in ex- 
plaining the Bible, as I had this afternoon. 
I saw new light and beauty in reading the 
account of the creation of the world. My 
scholars seemed equally delighted. I talk- 
ed to some of them personally upon the 
subject of religion, and they took it kindly. 
Some of them are children of the members 
of other churches. O, if I were only more 
holy, what an easy matter it would be to 
talk to the unconverted upon the subject of 
religion." 

She became connected with the Green 
street Sabbath School at the M. E. Church, 
several years before her conversion. She 
often spoke of her teacher, Bro. Gill, when 



oO± THE SACRED HOUR. 

she was a member of the Sabbath School. 
From the time she joined the church up to 
the time she left for Berlin Hights, she was 
absent but two Sabbaths from her class. 
After she went to the Water Cure Establish- 
ment, she attended a Sabbath School at that 
place, and taught a class the first two Sab- 
baths. She remarked to the scholars, — "O 
this reminds me so much of my dear Sabbath 
School class at Piqua. 0, how I love to 
teach the young the way to glory." She 
was fully alive to the interests of their 
immortal souls. She always had a word of 
encouragement and sympathy for a disheart- 
ened teacher — a kind word of exhortation 
to urge them onward. 

She was a careful observer of the Sab- 
bath day. It was always spent in religious 
duties. Kor would she ever employ her 
pen on that day, unless it was devoted to 
the subject of religion. The last Sabbath 
she spent in Piqua she wanted to write upon 
business of importance, but instantly re- 
marked, " I would rather be delayed sev- 
eral days than to write now, for I would 
have to write a business letter, — that I will 



THE SACRED HOUE. 



305 



NEVER DO ON THE Lord's DAY. If I did, I 

fear I should not be prospered. 55 When at 
Berlin Hights, she remarked in a letter to 
her sister Jenny, u I finish my letter this 
( Monday) morning. There was a great deal 
of writing done here yesterday, all over the 
house, but I did not dare, as a christian, to 
lend my influence in that way. 55 A noble 
example — every way worthy of imitation. 
On one occasion, when solicited to ride into 
the country on the Sabbath, she said, 
" something instantly whispered, 'Remem- 
ber the Sabbath day to keep it holy. 5 I 
then calmly replied, 'no one shall ever 
plead my exmample as an excuse for Sab- 
bath desecration. 5 55 

Sallie Caldwell was a self-denying chris- 
tian. She took no delight in parties for 
worldly amusement. In reference to one 
which she says appeared so "innocently got- 
ten up 55 — and well calculated to decoy the 
unwary feet of the young convert — " God 
mercifully preserved me by the right hand 
of his righteousness, and I am more than 
ever determined to shun the very " appear- 
ance of evil. 55 1 am almost alone in con- 
20 



308 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



deming the whole affair. I am also willing 
to bear the sneers of my young friends — • 
to be called singular ^ and laughed at for my 
over-scrwpulousness, as they term it. Let 
them deride me. I heed it not ; I have the 
approval of my God and my own con- 
science. "Would Jesus frequent such places? 
O, no. He says, ; Therefore come out from 
among them, and be ye separate, saith the 
Lord, and touch not the unclean thing, and 
I will receive you. [And I will be a Father 
unto you, and ye shall be my sons and 
daughters, saith the Lord Almighty." My 
heart leaps for joy to obey such a require- 
ment. And for this little act of self-denial, 
I have experienced much tranquility of 
mind." Dear reader,*go* and do likewise. 
Remember this,/ 6 If anyman will be my dis- 
ciple, let him deny himself and take up his 
cross and follow me." 

When reviled and persecuted for Christ's 
Bake, at times she would defend her course 
from the armory of divine truth, and at 
other times, like her blessed Master, she 
would " answer nothing." 

On one occasion she remarks, " I too have 



THE SACRED HOUE. 



307 



had the honor that comes from being "perse- 
cuted for righteousness sake." I have beer 
branded as weak minded —fanatical, quita 
too enthusiastic — -as having gone to great ex 
tremes in religion. Our love feast's and 
class meetings, come in for a share of 
abuse. Women speaking in meeting! O, 
horrible ! — this seemed to be a great hobby 
with one of them, — I am going said she, 
Sallie, to hear you hold forth, I have no 
doubt you will be eloquent upon such a pub- 
lic occasion. 6 Well, when the time came, I 
did bear my cross, and O, what light and 
joy sprung up in my soul." 

On another occasion she says, a conversa- 
tion was commenced for my especial benefit 
I suppose. " Well, I knew I could not pos- 
sibly say anything to change their minds. 
I went by myself and prayed for direction. 
I then opened my Bible on these words : 
" Only fear the Lord and serve him in truth 
with all your heart, for consider how great 
things he has done for you." O, there was 
a fountain of consolation opened for me, in 
that very hour. Light and beauty beamed 
from the sacred page. My faith was greatly 



308 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



increased ; I knew the Lord would help me 
in every time of need. I could sing 

1 Sufficient is thine arm alone. 
And our defense is sure.' n 

There is a time when true kindness and 
sympathy is most felt. That time is, when 
affliction spreads its sullen gloom, and death 
strikes his keenest blow, and miseries unfor- 
seen crush the human heart. 

"'Tis when fair prospects fade and disappear, 
And stern misfortune bends its withering frown ; 
When sinks the soul with anguish, grief, despair— - 
And love's most cherished objects death strikes down." 

Ah, at such an hour as this, our de- 
parted sister would come to light the gloom- 
est scene with a smile, and like an angel 
of mercy whisper words of comfort to the 
heart of the disconsolate. She loved to do 
it. Ah ! she never forgot that memorable 
declaration of our Lord — "I was sick and 
ye visited me— a stranger and ye took me 
in." I find this remark in one of her letters : 
;i I feel a glow of happiness pervading every 
avenue of my soul; — I have enjoyed great 
peace while visiting a sick young lady, a 
stranger, from Wisconsin. While sitting at 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



309 



he* sick bed, I have had some of the best 
of seasons." 

Again we see her watching at the couch 
of a dying infant — comforting a heart- 
stricken relative — or c - supplying for a little 
season, the place of a daughter* at the house 
of a solitary widow, whose only child, a be- 
loved daughter, had just been laid in the 
grave. In one of her letters, she speaks of 
many happy seasons, while comforting the 
sad and disconsolate. " I Jove/' says she, 
" to watch and administer to the temporal 
and spiritual wants of the dying. It is a 
good place for meditation and prayer? 

The condition of the poor boatmen on our 
lakes, canals, and western waters, awakened 
her christian sympathies — and accordingly 
we find her acting as President of a Bethel 
Society, the object of which was, to raise 
funds to procure clothing for the destitute, 
and Bibles and Testaments, to instruct them 
in the road to Heaven. 

The missionary cause was also dear to her 
heart. Although surrounded by all that heart 
could wish ; she wanted to engage in teach- 
ing, with a view to procure money to give 



310 



THE SACRED HOUK. 



to this noble cause. In one of her letters, 

she thus writes on this subject: " I have not 
jet abandoned my favorite project of teach- 
ing. I am now reviewing some of my stu- 
dies, preparatory to going before the Examin- 
ing Committee of Teachers for Common 
Schools, so that if I conclude to teach, my 
credentials will all he right* I earnestly 
hope that some field of usefulness of this 
kind, will be thrown open for me to enter. 
What few talents I possess, should benefit 
the commuty as myself." A noble resolu- 
tion worthy of imitation. 

Saliie enjoyed a cheerful religion. It is 
time she had her seasons of trial and sore 
conflict ; and at times such clear views of 
the corruptions of her heart, and the u ex- 
ceeding sinfulness of sin,*' as would almost 
overwhelm her spirit. But she would soon 
find relief in prayer or reading the word of 
God. These seasons were of short contin- 
uance. Her soul was generally filled with 
a spirit of rejoicing. She had a sweet voice 
and took great delight in singing the songs 
of Zion. On one occasion, in writing to 
Amelia, she remarks as follows : 



THE SACRED H0US. 31 1 

ci I greet you with a smiling face and 
happy heart. I have been singing all 
morning, while about my work' — praising 
my God in hymns and spiritual songs. My 
soul is overflowing with gratitude and love. 
My arms of faith and love s would all man- 
kind embrace.' O, let Jesus and his cross 
be my constant theme, when alone, or when 
mingling with those I love. Language 
would fail me, were I to attempt to recount 
the mercies which I have received from the 
hand of my Heavenly Father. From the 
dawn of my existence to the present hour, 
goodness and mercy have followed me. My 
lot has been cast in this beautiful city, — 
blessed with great church privileges and 
surrounded by warm-hearted christians. 
What a privilege to live in America, where 
woman holds such a high position. "Where 
every facility is afforded her for mental and 
religious culture, and for instructing others. 
Our opportunities and resources for doing 
good are endless. Every day brings some 
golden opportunity for smoothing the rough 
path of some of earth's unfortunate ones* 
We can, by a kind word, an encouraging 



312 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



smile, and a helping hand, in time of need 
cause the ' widow's heart to sing for joy. 5 
In our own little circle at home we can ex- 
hibit the spirit of our Saviour, by denying 
ourselves in little matters, to promote the 
happiness of those around us. A cheerful 

happy home is a type of heaven." • • 

Ah, at the fire-side, in the Home Circle, 
was the place above all others where Sallie 
loved to be. Her winning smile and cheer- 
ful look spread cheerfulness and content- 
ment throughout that little group. Her 
home was a home of love. 

The Father of Amelia is ruling Elder in 
the Old School Presbyterian Church, and 
Sallie's Father is also an Elder in the New 
School Presbyterian Church. In their cor- 
respondence they make frequent allusions tc 
this fact, and always speak in the highest 
terms of the piety and purity of the motives 
by which their parents were governed. 
Neither Amelia nor her young friend Miss 
Caldwell could fully subscribe to the doc- 
trines of the Confession of Faith. They 
often speak in their letters of the goodness 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



31S 



of God in bringing them both at last into 
the church of their choice. 

Children, on arriving at majority, have a 
right to choose for themselves in matters in- 
volving their spiritual and eternal destiny. 
Parents have a right to advise, but should 
never coerce their children to unite with 
any church, unless they can fully subscribe 
to its doctrines and peculiar usages. Evil 
and only evil, can result from such an in- 
judicious course. Matthew Caldwell, Esq., 
the father of Sallie, will never have calise to 
regret that he gave his cordial assent for 
his children to join the M. E. Church. 

I think it proper to insert, in this connec- 
tion, some wholesome advice il to all whom 
it may concern? 

ct Young converts should be exceedingly 
careful, in joining a church, not to subscribe 
to sentiments which they cannot believe. 
Many have done this to their sorrow, and 
have found it necessary to renounce the 
creeds to which they had blindly assented, 
and calmly submit to be called turn-coats. 
Others have found their mistake, and instead 
of coming out and connecting themselves 



314 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



with other churches, whose creeds they be- 
lieve — they remain where they first joined 
and continue to support by their example 
sentiments which they believe to be preju- 
dicial to the truth and the prosperity of the 
cause of Christ. Young converts should 
stop and think of the sentiments they are 
invited to avow, before they join the church. 

"For this we have provision in the trial 
our church requires of every candidate. 
This trial affords to each one access to all 
the privileges of the church, but does not 
demand assent to her creed until the expi- 
ration of six months. Each candidate is 
expected to examine the creed, and if he 
does not believe it, of course he will not as- 
sent to it, but go elsewhere. This matter is 
too much neglected. Some are told it does 
not make any difference what the creed is, 
so the heart is right. And in others the 
" Creed" is kept entirely out of sight 
when they join — so many are made to pro- 
fess what they never believed. Hence we 
often hear sentiments advanced diametrically 
contrary to those they prof ess to believe," 

Sallie K. Caldwell was free from bigotry. 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



315 



She ardently loved the church of her choice 
— its discipline and peculiar forms of wor- 
ship- — all its varied means of grace — yet 
she was free from bigotiy or sectarian feel- 
ing. She could freely give her warm hand 
to all who bore the image of her Master, no 
difference by what name they were called. 
Many of the ambassadors of Christ, of 
other denominations, can bear witness to 
the warm and cordial greetings she gave 
them at her fathers house. She endeavored 
to make them all feel at home. 

She makes frequent mention of attending 
church with her parents. I was deeply af- 
fected with her account, in one of her let- 
ters, of the first time she communed with 
her Father and Mother, at the New School 
Church. She spoke of the preparatory ser- 
mon, on the previous day, and then remark- 
ed. i; I enjoy a sermon from one evangelical 
minister as well as another. I thank God 
we will soon be where denominations are 
not known." At another time she remarks, 
I went with my dear parents to prayei 
meeting at their church, and had a refresh- 
ing season. I returned home happy." 



316 



THE SACRED HOUR 



I take great pleasure in giving a place in 
the Sacred Hour to the following interesting 
letter from the pen of the Rev. William H . 
Lawder, a superannuated minister of the 
Cincinnati annual conference, now resid- 
ing in Piqua. Bro. Lawder speaks from 
personal knowledge of the character and 
virtues of Miss Caldwell. 

Piqua, Oct. 24th, 1855. 

"I should have attempted a compliance 
with your request ere this, but for sickness 
and other hindering causes. And now that 
I have commenced to write, I hesitate what 
to say — not that I shall say two much, but 
that I shall come short of what is due to the 
memory of our dear departed sister. I very 
much regret that my acquaintance with her 
w T as of so recent date, and consequently in a 
great degree, anything from my pen will be 
imperfect. My acquaintance with her com- 
menced some two years since. It began in 
the class-room. Here, as far as I now re- 
member, her place was never vacant, — she 
was always in her seat. She seemed high- 
ly to appreciate and greatly to enjoy this 
peculiar means of grace. She was always 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



317 



ready to give an ' answer of the reason of the 
hope within her.' She spoke with great 
freedom, as one familiar with the deep 
things of Christian experience, and often 
expressed her thoughts and feelings in the 
beautiful and appropriate language of Di- 
vine inspiration. It was very apparent that 
she had studied the word of God closely, 
and with prayer. All were delighted to 
hear the account she gave of her christian 
experience. There was ever a pleasing va- 
riety that ministered not only to the com- 
fort, but also to the edification of those that 
heard — giving to them a new impetus in 
the w T ay of righteousness. Long will she 
be remembered by those who met her sta- 
tedly in the class-room. 

"She was equally punctual in her atten- 
dance upon the public means of grace and 
seemed to enjoy and derive good from the 
most humble efforts of the pulpit. She did 
not take her seat with the ear of a critic, 
disposed to mark and condemn every defect 
in the matter and manner of the minister ; 
but with an honest and prayerful desire to 
understand and treasure up all that could in 



318 THE SACRED HOUR. 

any way minister to her instruction and 
perfection in the graces of the christian 
character. She heard the word gladly, but 
to 'grow in grace and the knowledge of 
our Lord Jesus Christ.' 
"But the Sabbath School was the field in 
which she was, if not the most profitable, at 
least the most active and laborious. Up to 
the time of her last illness, the Superinten- 
dent was never under the neceessity of 
finding a teacher for her class. She was 
there, and at the time, and always prepared 
to teach. It was quite evident that she did 
not come to her class without some previous 
preparation. The result was that her class 
loved her and were seldom absent. But 
she was not content with the opportunity of 
instructing those who came to the class of 
their own accord. Like her Master, she 
' went about doing good? She sought 
out those who w^ere accustomed to spend 
the Sabbath elsewhere, and brought them to 
the house of God. In the Sabbath School 
her loss will be most severly felt. 

" She was also a great friend to the Mis- 
sionary Cause. To this good work she 



THE SACRED H0UE. 



319 



would doubtless have been willing, (had 
Providence opened the way,) to devote not 
only a portion of her time in the home of 
her youth, but herself — her life, in distant 
lands. But she rests from her labors, and 
her memory will abide among us, "like 
ointment poured forth. 5 " 

Sallie K. Caldwell was more than an or- 
dinary Christian. From the time that the 
mild voice of religion whispered in her ear 
and directed her heart by the effectual ener- 
gy of the Holy Spirit, gradually into the 
possession of peace with God, she con- 
stantly labored for higher degrees of holi- 
ness. The word of God was her daily 
companion, prayer her most valued exercise, 
and praise her heart's delight. Soon after 
she united with the church she said to a 
friend, "I have served Satan faithfully, but 
I have now renounced his service— chosen 
a new Master, and I intend to serve Him 
more faithfully." She was never known to 
step aside from the path of Christian recti- 
tude. From the hour of her conversion 
she surrendered the world to its votaries, 



320 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



and resolved to be a " whole-hearted chris- 
tian — a Bible christian." 

It will be seen from her Journal and let- 
ters that she " shunned the very appearance 
of evil," and refused to indulge in what 
many professors term 4 'innocent amuse- 
ments," "concerts,* 5 "parties," etc." She 
could truly say, with the great apostle 
of the Gentiles, " And herein do I exercise 
myself to have always a conscience void of 
offence towards God and towards man/' 
Previous to her conversion she had indulged 
in the fickle pleasures of the world, and 
some might think it a hard matter for one 
so young to renounce them all. Grace tri- 
umphed in her heart. " Where sin abound- 
ed, grace did much more abound." She 
gave up all to Christ. She had no "fellow- 
ship with unfruitful works." She did not 
even desire to enjoy the pleasures of sin for 
a season. The consecration was complete 
• — entire — wanting nothing. And God ac- 
cepted her offering. From the earliest 
stages of her christian experience, her lan- 
guage was, 



THE SACRKD HOCE. 



321 



"Could I all human souls combine, 
Those souls I would present my Lord, 

And angels at the sight should join 

Their minstrel choir with sweet accord, 

" My heart abounds with grateful songs, 
And overflows with streams of love ; 

To God alone all praise belongs 
By all below and all above." 

It will also be seen in this work that she 
was remarkably regular in the performance 
of her religious duties. She had adopted 
some plans and rules of "Holy Living," 
which she strictly adhered to under all cir- 
cumstances. At nine o'clock, she was al- 
ways present at her class, in that sacred spot, 
the Old North Room, in the basement of 
the Green street M. E. Church. At the 
stated preaching of the word she was a de- 
vout and attentive hearer. She had a well* 
balanced mind, a retentive memory, and 
wonderful faculty of concentrating all her 
mental powers upon the subject under dis- 
cussion. With a little more experience, she 
would have made an excellent reporter for 
the press. You may well imagine my sur- 
prise to find among her letters, many of my 
own sermons, delivered in 1852-3, report- 
ed with remarkable accuracy,— some of 
31 



322 



THE SACRED HOUK, 



which were delivered at times of uimsal re- 
ligions interest in the church, and were 
spoken with great rapidity. 

She was a great admirer of nature. Her 
soul was in harmony with the beautiful. 
Ct Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall 
see God." To her mind — 

" Nature was the chart of God — 
Mapping out all his attributes." 

She loved to ramble in the ;; Grand Old 
Woods " and contemplate the works of the 
Creator. 

"For beauty hideth everywhere, that Reason's child 

may seek her, 
And having found the gem of price may set it in 

God's crown." 

She dearly loved to behold the beauty of 
the rolling clouds. She felt 

" It glorious to gaze upon the firmament, and see from 

far the mansions of the blest : 
Each distant shining world, a kingdom for one of the 

redeemed ; 

To read the antique history of earth stamped upon 

those medals in the rocks, 
Which design hath rescued from decay, to tell of the 

green infancy of time." 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



323 



Although surrounded by a gay circle of 
young friends, she loved the society of the 

meek and lowly in heart/ 7 Eeligion was 
the theme upon which she delighted to dwell. 
After trying the service of God for more 
than two years, she makes this record in her 
Journal. i% I still find fresh delight in the 
story of the cross. The service of God is 

A THOUSAND FOLD MORE DELIGHTFUL NOW THAN 
WHEN I FIRST STARTED/ 7 

Eeligion with her was an habitual thing. 
It shone with a fixed light in the firmament 
of her soul. It was the settled temper of 
her heart ; not like some stars which are 
seen but seldom. It was not casual, but 
constant. 

She made no "compromises" with the 
world. Consequently she was not unfre- 
quently called ' 4 over-scrupulous " in little 
matters, or "fanatical." But she was 
ready to say. " none of these things move 
me," 

M Above your scorn we rise : 
Our conscience in the Holy Ghost- 
Can witness better things ; 
For He whose blood is all our boast 
Hath made us priests and kings." 

My dear reader, I am free to admit, that Sal- 



324 



THE SACKED HOUB. 



lie was just like you and I, depraved and 
erring by nature, but grace 4C reigned 
through righteousness unto eternal life, by 
Christ Jesus, our Lord." It was the grace 
of God that enabled her " to shine. 55 Though 
the soul maybe "free from sin, 55 yet we 
are liable to err in judgment, and will all 
our lifetime remain subject to the infirmities 
and unavoidable failings growing out of the 
original fall of man 

" Not to be tainted with the smallest error 

Is the sole prerogative of heaven ; 

But that immunity was never given to earth. " 

Yet like the believing Corinthians, we may 
be " full of goodness, 55 and like Barnabas, 
" full of the Holy Ghost, 55 and like Dorcas, 
"full of good works. 55 The " fruits of the 
Spirit 55 musfc hang out in our conduct and 
daily walk, like fruit upon the boughs of a 
productive tree. 

The providence by which Miss Caldwell 
has been removed so early from the vine- 
yard is inscrutable. Here his path lieth in 
the deep waters. But while clouds and 
darkness are around about him, justice 
and judgment are the habitation of his 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



325 



throne. To us it is a severe dispensation, 
but the why and the wherefore we cannot 
now answer. 

" God, a wise Father, showeth not his reasons to his 
babes, 

But willeth in secrecy and goodnees — causes generate 
dispute." 

That life is not always longest which is 
spun out to the greatest extent of days. 
There is undoubtedly a way of rendering a 
short life a long one, — " That life is longest 
which answers life's great end/' 

" The righteous shall be in everlasting re- 
membrance." Her career was short but 
brilliant. I have no fears that she wears a 
" starless crown." no. She accomplish- 
ed a great work, and has early gone to 
rest." Her works follow — virtue never 
dies. 

u The wintry blasts of death 
Kill not the buds of virtue ; no, they spread 
Beneath the heavenly beams of brighter suns, 
Through endless ages into higher power " 

She was " instant m season and out of 
season." She loved to woke for Jesus, 
and tried to improve every golden opportu- 



326 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



nity. Her works of charity, patience and 
love, gave evidence of the gratitude that 
glowed within her heart toward God for 
all his mercies. While "the ruling feel- 
ing of her heart" was, u I am safe." her 
highest ambition was to be Christ-like — to 
do good. It is certain that she enjoyed 
more than she professed, even to her most 
intimate friends. Any one who will care- 
fully peruse this work will not be left in the 
dark, as to the measure of her christian at- 
tainments. She, being "dead, yet speak- 
eth." I have aimed to let her speak for 
herself throughout the whole of the Sa- 
cred Hour. 0, it is a sweet voice from 
the spirit land, to woo us from earth, and 
allure us to heaven. 

Among the very last words that Sallie 
Kitchen Caldwell uttered, when leaving 
Piqua in the cars for Berlin Hights, were 
the following, — " I am determined to be a 
Christian and work for God." And most 
faithfully did she execute this high and ho- 
ly purpose among strangers, until the 
"weary wheels of life stood still. " Truly 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



327 



of her may it be said, she hath done what 
she could. 

w The grateful deed her hand hath wrought, 

Where'er the gospel is conveyed, 
Like balmy gales, with oders fraught, 

In purest light shall be displayed. 

"Touched with a zeal for every woe, 

Sisters in every clime shall rise, 
To emulate her deeds below, 

And share her bliss above the skies. 

" To griefs sad house and couch of pain, 
With hasty steps shall they repair, 

From lowliest act shall ne'er refrain, 
One pang to ease, or sorrow bear. 

" The orphan's tear, they wipe away, 
Break proud oppression's cruel roa ; 

And thus religion pure display, 

And un defiled they walk with God. 

" Lured by the Sheperd's gentle call, 
His tender Lambs to him they guide, 

That when the storms of life shall fall, 
Within his fold they safe may hide. 

" Their hands shall pluck from life's fair tree 
The balmy leaves for sin's deep wound : 

And scatter with profusion free, 

Till health, and life, and joy abound, 

"Thus mercy's deeds have they performed, 
And what they could, they still shall do ; 

Their life with every grace adorned, 
And Heaven On Them Shall God Bestow." 



CHAPTEK XII. 



THIS I DO FOR JESUS, MY SAVIOR. 

r " I wept, yet humbly kissed the rod, 
The best of all I still have left — 
My Faith, my Bible and my God." 

A female missionary, Mrs. C 3 called 

afterward "The Noble Mother," as she 
held her children to her breast and im- 
printed on them a mother's kiss, and be- 
stowed on them a mother's farewell — no 
tears affording relief to her bursting heart — 
her face as pale as if life itself had retreated 
from its citadel — said with the deepest 
emotion, but with calm and heroic devo- 
tion — "This I do for Jesus, my Savior — 
this I do for the heathen." 

How touching and sublime a scene like 
this. O how it stirs the deepest feelings of 
the human heart. We see here the same 
spirit that led the martyrs to the stake. 

Polycarp said to the Proconsul who re- 
quired him to swear by the Fortunes of 
Csesar — "Eighty and six years have I 
served Christ, and he hath never deceived 
328 



* 



THE SACRED HOUR. 329 

me — and how can I blaspheme him who is 
my King and Savior ? " " Swear by the 
fortunes of Caesar," said the Proconsul 
again. " I am a Christian," said Poly carp. 
" I have wild beasts, and unless you repent 
you will suffer the consequences." " Let 
them be brought forth," said Polycarp. 
" Since you despise the wild beasts," said 
the Proconsul, " I will tame your spirit, if 
you do not change your mind, by fire." 
Polycarp replied, "You threaten me with 
fire which burns for a moment, but you are 
ignorant of eternal fire which is reserved 
for all the ungodly." What a sublime 
spectacle. It fills us with admiration. Ah ! 
well might Polycarp have said, when going to 
the stake, " This I do for Jesus'my Savior." 
O yes, he " loved not his life unto the 
death" I hesitate not to say that there are 
multiplied thousands now living on earth, 
that would cheerfully go to the stake, before 
they w r ould deny the Savior. A martyr's 
spirit is still in the church. And yet I fear 
there are too many who profess to be the 
followers of Christ that are too much con- 
formed to the spirit and practice of this 



330 THE SACRED HOUR. 

world. This world merits neither our hearts 
nor our homage. It should not share our 
affections. We cannot serve two masters 
— " God and Mammon. 55 To serve one we 
must abandon the other ; to follow one fully 
we must renounce the other. This world is 
the enemy of God, and smitten with his 
anathemas. We cannot be the friend of 
this world without being an enemy of God. 
" Know ye not that the friendship of the 
world is enmity with God? Whosoever 
therefore will be a friend of the world is an 
enemy of God. 55 — James 4:4. O, let me 
ask you, what do you find in this world but 
emptiness and deceit ? In its best estate it is 
like some of the Egyptian temples, beauti- 
ful without, but on entering you can see 
nothing but the image of an ape. What is 
there in it that can attract us ? Should not 
everything that the world has, rather de- 
tach, than engage our hearts? Are its 
promises sincere and lasting ? Ah does it 
not often 

" Keep the word of promise to our ear, 
And break it to our hope/' 



THE SACRED HOUR, 



331 



Are even its fevers enjoyed without danger 
and fear? Gather up all its riches, honors c 
and pleasures and we behold "vanity and 
vexation of spirit n written upon the fron- 
tispiece of them all. 

M Pleasure, while vre pursue i:, flies. 
And fancied bliss deludes cmr eyes, 
Wiiiie grace bede~s, ~ida many a rear, 
The ground ^iiicn sin na:n sown wi£h care." 

There is no royal road to heaved. It is 
by the way of the manger, the garden, and 
M Calvary's Holy Mountain." Christ, at his 
departure out of this world, left us no other 
legacy but His Cross and II' s Grac-:, 

We are all children of Calvary. TTe are 
not called to a life of rest, but ot labor — to a 
lite of self-denial and cross-bearing. If we 
would reign with Christ, we must gladly 
suffer tor him on earth. TTe are called to a 
decided separation from the world, and unre- 
served consecration to his Service, of soul 
and body, time, talents and property. 

Homer speaks of a tree called the Lotus, 
the fruit of which resembled dates, and was 
so delightful that they who tasted it desired 
to remain forever in that country, and lost 



332 



THE SACK FT) HOUR. 



all thoughts of home. O, my dear sister, 
have you tasted the fruit of this fatal tree ? 
Has the love of the world obscured your 
spiritual vision ? Have you lost all thoughts 
and desires about your home in the shies ? 
For whom and for what are you living? O, 
can you say, " This I do for Jesus my Sa- 
vior" and the conversion of sinners ? How 
many sacrifices have you made for the Sa- 
vior since you espoused his cause? What 
Idols have you renounced for the sake of 
Christ and his gospel? We must make 
sacrifices and practice self-denial, if we 
would be crowned with glory at the coming 
of our Lord. "To win Christ," we must 
forsake all. " So likewise whosoever he 
be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, 
he cannot be my disciple/' — Luke 14: 33. 

" Then saw I this — that whether guileless child, 
Or youth, or age, or genius won salvation, 

Each self renouncing came ; and on each God smiled — 
Each found the love of Christ rich compensation 

For loss of friends, earth's pleasures and renown : 

Each entered heaven, and * by His side sat down."* 

A pious young lady, when dying, wa3 
asked by her sister in the following manner : 
u My dear sister, what shall 1 do when you 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



333 



are gone?" " Glorify God," was her 
short but appropriate answer. This should 
be the great object and pursuit of every 
christian. " Ye are not your own, for ye are 
bought with a price, therefore glorify God 
in your body and spirit which are God's. 
This must be done by external sanctity of 
life and body, and internal purity of heart. 
We may glorify God by sufferings — by cul- 
tivating a cheerful submission to his holy 
will under bereavements and the losses of 
the world. 

" I see God wiLL have my whole heart 
and he shall have it" was a fine reflec- 
tion, made by a lady on receiving intelli- 
gence that two of her sons, whom she ten- 
derly loved, were suddenly drowned. O, 
now can we refuse to give our whole hearts 
to Jesus? Think how he loved us. When 
we were enemies, then Christ died to redeem 
us from all iniQuiTY. He bore our sins in 
his own body upon the tree. O, how amaz- 
ing is the love of God to fallen man. God 
stoops to dwell in flesh — leaves his throne 
in heaven — loses his life on earth, and 
wades through hell to enthrone us in his 



334 THE SACRED HOUR. 

kingdom, and make us crowned Kings for- 
ever* 

" We love him," says John, " because he 
first loved us." No reason can be given 
why God loved any of Adam's children, 
but simply because He loved us ; but many 
good reasons can be assigned why you should 
love Him, — not only because he is infinitely 
lovely, but because " He loved us," before 
we had thoughts of love toward Him. 
Alas ! how prone we are to forget his love, 
and the benefits we have received through 
his death. How soon do we forget the mer- 
cies of God! 

" They lie 

Forgotten in nnthankfulness, 
And without praises die." 

"Be astonished, O ye heavens, at this ; and 
be horribly afraid at the ingratitude of man ! " 
How little do we think on redeeming love. 
How little do we speak of this love or re- 
commend it to those who know it not. 
How do the small trifles and little nothings 
of the world get more room in our hearts 
than the purchase of Christ on Calvary. 
What have we to say in favor of this "man 



THE SACRED HOTE. 



335 



of sorrows ! n It was a custom, says one of 
the ancient Eabins. among the Israelites, 
wnen a criminal was condemned to die, to 
send a crier around the city, saving — "If 
A2hT one esoweth a2ttthin'g ra favor of this 

pcr50H. LET HEM COME FORWARD."' This Was 

denied to Jesus. No doubt if, according to 
custom, this proclamation had been made, 
thousands of the poor whose tonguts he 
had loosed, and whose eyes he had opened, 
and the lame whom he had healed, would 
have thronged around him and testified to 
his innocence, and the Godlike charity and 
acts of benevolence with which that life had 
been so signally marked. But no. — M H13 

JTDGMEXT WAS TAKEN AWAY." The disciples 

forsook him and fled ; faithless Peter denied 
him with an oath — saying, i% I know not 
the man!* 

But although Christ was thus denied and 
dishonored in the days of his humiliation, 
thousands confess him now. as their Lord 
and Redeemer. I am glad that I have the 
privilege of asking you. my dear reader.— 
44 "What think ye of Christ?" Have you 
anything to say in his favor? What is your 



336 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



word of testimony in the church? What is 
your testimony before your unconverted 
friends ? What is your testimony in the 
family circle ? Do you endeavor to recom- 
mend him by your daily walk and conver- 
sation? Aye, by precept and example f 
You may do much to honor and recommend 
Christ by a good example. The preaching 
of the gospel is to do a great deal, but not all 
— the silent but convincing power of a con- 
sistent holy life, preaching a constant ser- 
mon to the eye of the unconverted, will 
do much also. A good example is an ordi- 
nance of God's own appointment for the 
salvation of sinners. If you are not an ex- 
emplary christian, acting out what you pro- 
* fess, you are a "robber" of God and man, 
It is not jw&fessing well but doing wdl that 
will secure you an entrance into heaven. 
" Blessed are they who do his command- 
ments, that they may have a right to the 
tree of life, and enter in through the gates 
into the city." 

It is recorded of Louis XIY of France, 
that when the Eddystone Light House was 
building, one of his small vessels of war 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



337 



came so near the coast as to take the men 
prisoners of war that were employed in 
rearing the fabric, who with their tools were 
carried to France. As soon as the monarch 
heard of it, he ordered the men to be sent 
back to their work, declaring at the same 
time, that although he was at war with Eng- 
land, he was not at war with humanity. — If 
you love the souls of those around you, en- 
deavor to " shine brightly " like the Light 
House, whose reflectors have not been rusted 
by the rains of heaven, that you may guide 
many safely over the dangerous sea of life, 
into the haven of eternal bliss. 

It is your duty to "shine " as a light in 
the world, " holding forth the word of 
life. " But you are ready to say, " I am an 
obscure individual ; what can I do ? " I an- 
swer, you can " shine " — Do not be like a 
" burnt post;" live Holy and your influ- 
ence will be felt everywhere you go. Do 
all that you can — God, angels, and good 
men ask no more. " Determine to be a 
Christian, and work for God." 

Some years ago I read an account of a 

lone widow, that dwelt upon the sea shore, 
22 



S38 



THE SACRED HOUK. 



All around her the coast was rugged and 
dangerous ; and many times was her heart 
melted by the sight of perishing human be- 
ings. One stormy night, when the howling 
wind was making her loneliness more lonely, 
and her mind was conjuring up what the next 
morning's light might disclose, a happy 
thought occurred to her. Her cottage stood 
upon an elevated spot, and her window 
looked out upon the sea : might she not 
place her lamp in that window, that it might 
be a beacon light to warn some poor mariner 
off the coast? She did so. All her life 
after, during the winter nights, her lamp 
burned at the window ; and many a poor 
fisherman had cause to bless God for the 
widow's lamp; many a crew was saved 
from perishing. That woman " did what 
she could ; " and if all believers kept their 
light burning as brightly and steadily, might 
not many a soul be warned to flee from the 
wrath to come? Many Christians have not 
the power to do much active service for 
Christ ; but if they would live as lights in 
the world, they would do much. If those 
who cannot preach to the old or teach the 



THE SACRED HOUR, 



339 



young, would but walk worthy of Him who 
hath called them to his kingdom and glory, 
how much would the hands of ministers and 
teachers be strengthened, and their hearts 
encouraged. 

A custom prevails in Greenland of an in- 
structive character. When a stranger 
knocks at the door, he asks — " Is God in 
this house ? " If they answer Yes, — he en- 
ters. O sister, let me ask you, from my 
quiet retreat, is God in your house ? Is the 
Savior still a guest in your family ? Is your 
house known in heaven? Do the angels 
still visit you like Abraham of old? Have 
you a little chamber on the wall, called, by 
way of distinction, the " Prophets' cham- 
ber " as in former years, when the candle of 
the Lord shone upon your "tabernacle?" 

Mr. Wesley was once asked whether he 
believed a certain man was a christian. He 
instantly replied — "I cannot tell you, I 
never lived in his family." Aye, does the 
ark still abide in your family, as it did in 
the house of Obed-edom ? — It is not what a 
man professes, but how he lives that must 
o -ride the reality of his religion. 



340 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



Is the fire still blazing on the family al- 
tar ? Do you pray in secret ? Do you love 
the place of social worship, and to converse 
with the friends of Jesus ? Are you labor- 
ing and praying for the world's conversion ? 
O, then 

" Let oat thy soul in prayer : 

N ot for thy home alone — 
Away in prayer, away ! 




" Let out thy soul in prayer, 
let thy spirit grow : 



God gives thee sun and air, 
Let the full blossom blow, 1 



CHAPTER XIII. 

THAT I MIGHT GLORIFY GOD IN MY DEATH* 

u Christian, behold ! the land is nearing, 

Where the wild sea storm's rage is o'er. 
Hark ! how the heavenly hosts are cheering : 

See in what forms they range the shore. 
Cheer up ! cheer up ! the day breaks o'er thee, 

Bright as the summer noon tide ray : 
The star-gemmed crowns and realms of glory 

Invite thy happy soul away. 
Away ! away ! leave all for glory : 

Thy name is written on the throne — 
Thy home is in those realms of glory, 

Where thy Redeemer now is gone." 

A deeply pious relative of mine, who had 
consecrated herself to God in the morning 
of life, when dying and bidding adieu to 
her weeping and disconsolate family, after 
kissing her dear children and giving them 
her parting blessing, called her husband to 
her and said in the most emphatic manner, 
"William, you will now see to what pur- 
pose I have lived — that I might glorify 
God in my death." 

St. Paul, in writing to the church at Phil- 
ippi, uses the following beautiful and ex- 
pressive language: " According to my ear- 

341 



342 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



nest expectation and my hope that in nothing 
I shall be ashamed, but that with all bold- 
ness, as always, so now also. Christ shall be 
magnified in ray body, whether it be by life 
or ly death . For to me to live is Christ, but 
to die is gain.*' Philippians, 1: 20, 21. 

Dear reader, let me ask you in the close 
of this volume, to * what purpose have 
you lived I n If you would tc glorify God 
in your death.'* you must " show forth the 
praises of Him who hath called you from 
darkness into his marvelous light." in 
your life. In a word, if God should be glo- 
rified, either in you? *' life or death™ you 
must be a 49 working christian. 7 ' Holy living 
will make happy dying. The church is still 
in a military condition. We are ensign 
bearers for Christ. w In the name of oui 
God we have set up our banners.'* Let us 
not look at the dangers and sufferings of 
the campaign, but think much of dividing 
the spoil and the garland of honor that will 
be set upon our brow by the Captain of our 
salvation. TTe can have no charter of exemp- 
tion given to us in this life — we must be 
made ;i perfect through suffering? Life is 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



343 



foil of change — a mixed cup of jov and 
sorrow, and may be fitly represented by a 
river mentioned by Plutarch, the waters 
running sweet in the morning, and bitter in 
the evening. But what of all this ? Our 
way at times may be dark and thorny too ; 
but let us ever remember we are traveling 

o 

the same road that Christ and the c< collect- 
ed excellence " of all past ages have trodden. 
It is repeated in Bohemian story, that Win- 
cesslaus, then King, one winter night going 
to his devotions barefooted in the snow and 
sharp ice, his servant, who waited upon his 
master's piety, and endeavored to imitate 
his affections, began to faint, through the 
violence of the snow and cold, until the 
King commanded him to follow him close- 
ly, and set his feet in the same footsteps 
which his feet should mark for him. The 
servant did so, and followed his Prince, 
helped forward with shame and zeal to his 
imitation, and by forming the footsteps for 
him in the snow. 

O my dear brother or sister, is your way 
rough ? Do you begin to faint with the fa- 
tigues of your journey ? Follow your Sa- 
•^«ot more closely. He has "left us an ex- 



344 THE SACKED HOCK. 

ample that ye should follow in his steps." 
He has gone before us and mapped out the 
way, in marks of blood. He is now form- 
ing footsteps for you in rough, slippery 
places. O do not follow him in the distance, 
but place your erring and bleeding feet in 
his foosteps. 

He will subdue thine enemies from before 
thy face. " Behold the Lord thy God hath 
6et the land before thee ; go up and possess 
it as the Lord God of thy Fathers hath said 
unto thee ; fear not, neither be discouraged." 
Faith in Jesus will enable you to triumph 
at all times. It is in this way that the good 
in all ages have been enabled to come off* 
u more than conquerors." 

" They marked the footsteps that he trod, 

His zeal inspired their breast, 
And following their incarnate God, 

Possess the promised rest" 

If we live as our fathers and mothers 
have lived, and "walk and talk with God," 
as some of our departed sisters have done, 1 
have no fears but that God " will he glori- 
fied in our death? 

In 1838, when I traveled White Oak Cir- 
cuit, the Eev. Benjamin Lakin, of precious 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



345 



memory, resided at Point Pleasant, within 
the bounds of my circuit, I had the pleas- 
ure of a familiar acquaintance with him, 
and although he was then advanced in 
years and sustained a superanuated rela- 
tion to the Ohio Conference, he often preach- 
ed for me. On one occasion, a funeral ser- 
mon at Calvary meeting house, I heard him 
remark as follows : 

fi< I have long since ceased to pray that I 
might die at any particular time, or place, 
or of any peculiar disease, surrounded by 
such a class of circumstances as would ren- 
der it desirable," etc. "I have/' said this 
holy man of God, " but one short prayer to 
offer in regard to my death — and it is 
simply this — that God would grant me the 
privilege of dying just at such a time, place 
and manner as shall bring the most glory 
to my dear Redeemer" I have never for- 
gotten that remark ; and when I heard of 
his death, it impressed me more forcibly 
still. He continued to preach until he had 
reached the eighty-second year of his age, 
and the fifty-fourth year of his ministry. 
About eight years ago, he started to Felici- 
ty, or horseback, for the purpose of attend- 



346 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



ing a quarterly meeting among his old 
friends. He reached the house of Sister 
Richards on Friday evening, almost in sight 
of the church where I heard him make the 
above remark. He was enjoying an unu- 
sually happy frame of mind, and appeared 
in usual health, and conversed freely and 
cheerfully with his old acquaintances, until 
about eleven o'clock in the evening. He 
then looked at his watch and arose from his 
seat, stepped out into the hall and suddenly 
fell. The family supposed at first that he 
had fainted, and made many efforts to re- 
store him to life — but the spirit of the aged 
pilgrim was with God. He had realized 
truly what he loved to sing when in health — 

" that without one lingering groan, 
I may the welcome word receive : 

My body with my charge lay down, 
And cease at once to work and live." 

God was indeed glorified in his death. . 
We should have no will but God's. A lady 
who was very ill, was asked by her kind 
physician " if she felt resigned to die ? " 
She promptly answered "The 4 will of the 
Lord be done, 5 and not my own." "Well, 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



347 



sister," said he, " suppose God should leave 
it with you to decide — and refer this matter 
into your own hands — what would you do 
then?" She studied for a moment, and 
then meekly said, " Doctor, I should refer 
it back to him again." 

How touching and how truthful. " 0, 
woman, great is thy faith." "Under all cir- 
cumstances the language of our hearts 
should be — "It is the Lord, let him do 
what seemeth good." 

" Though new ascended up on high, 
Christ bends to earth a brother's eye : 
In every pang that rends the heart, 
The man of sorrows hath a part. 
With boldness, therefore, at the throne, 
Let us make all our sorrows known, 
And ask the aids of heavenly power 
To help us in the evil hour." 

Contrast the death bed scene of Miss 
Caldwell, at Berlin Hights, with that of 
Hoffman, the voluptuous novelist, whose 
dying exclamation was, "Life, Life — only 
life, on any condition whatever." He was 
unwilling to think of God or futurity — but 
went on dictating his wild stories to the 
last. The closing scene was striMag and 
instructive. His feet, legs and arms had 



348 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



been paralized for months. At length he 
lost all sensation, though his fancy retained 
its creative power. Feeling no more pain 
he said to his physician, (thinking he was 
about to recover, ) "1 feel no more pain — 
it will soon be over." " Yes," said the 
medical man, giving another and more im- 
pressively solemn meaning to his words, 
" it will soon be over." When made fully 
aware that he was dying, he called his wife 
to his bedside, and begging her to fold his 
motionless hands together, said, lifting his dy- 
ing eyes to heaven, " We must, then^ thinh 
of God also." Shortly after, the expiring 
flame glared up again within him, and fan- 
cying that he might still postpone intrusive 
thoughts of God and eternity, he said, " I 
shall be well enough in the evening to go 
on with the tale I have been inditing." 
He asked for the reading of the last sen- 
tence — and just as it was finished expired. 
O ! it is sad to reflect on such a melancholy 
scene. Let us turn our eyes to the couch of 
one who has lived for God — who loved to 
think about him when in health, and now 
as she is departing from earth — 



THE SACKED HOCB. 



349 



— — " On her dying countenance was seen 
A smile — the index of s soul serene." 

The dark valley is illumined by the light 
that shines from the Celestial city — her fu- 
ture home — 

" The palace of angels and God." 

5 if she could have spoken to those around 
her dying bed at that moment, she would 
have exclaimed — " Mywokk is done. See ! 
See! I am almost Home." But 0, what 
tongue can portray the goodness of God. 
A weeping mother has now arrived — anx- 
ious to hear from her own dying lips if "all 
is well." The saint of God revives again 
for a moment, to whisper words of comfort, 
and to send her last farewell to " the loved 
ones at home,' 5 and then exclaims — "O 
ma, why did you call me back ? I wa3 so 
happy " — and then, looking upward, said— 
4i Lay me down — let me go. O! how 
bright! O! howeright! 0! how bright!" 

Her imprisoned spirit was set free, and 
wings were given her to fly from these ter- 
rene abodes to regions of immortal bliss. 

H Then surely vhen the prison bands of death are 
loosed* 



350 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



And the strong prison of the soul is broken, 
It will rise high above its boldest flight — 
Above its cares — above its joys and sorrows — 
And rest not till it breathes the heavenly air, 
And folds its pinions near the throne of God." 

A parting word, and I will bid yon farewell 
for the present. Read good hooks — eschew 
the frothy, light literature that floods every 
thoroughfare, and threatens to devour the 
"good seed of the Kingdom." Read espe- 
cially the word of God. In it alone you 
c&nf?id food f m your soul. You will find 
a great difference between it and the unin- 
spired productions of men. It is the sword 
of the Spirit, and your best weapon of de- 
fence. This thought is beautifully illus- 
trated by the conflict between Appolyon 
and Christian in the Talley of Humilia- 
tion. Appolyon threw a dart at the breast 
of Christian, but Christian had a " shield 
that warded it off.'' The battle now raged 
more fiercely, Appolyon throwing his darts 
as thick as hail, wounded Christian in the 
head, hand and foot, and made him give 
back. The combat lasted half a day, 
Christian still growing weaker and weaker. 
At length Appolyon gave him a dreadf ul 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



351 



fall, and the u sword " of Christian flew 
out of his hand. Appolyon pressed him 
sore, and he began to despair of life. But 
as God would have it, while Appolyon was 
fetching a last blow to make an end of this 
good man, Christian reached out his bleed- 
ing hand, and caught his " sword," saying, 
"Rejoice not against me, O mine enemy, 
when I fall I shall arise," and then gave 
his enemy a mortal wound. Christian see- 
ing that, made at Appolyon again, saying, 
"Nay in all these things we are more than 
conquerors through him that hath loved us." 
Then one came to him, with the leaves of 
the " tree of life," and healed his wounds, 
and Christian now being refreshed went on 
his way " sword" in hand. "For the 
weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but 

mighty, through God." The Eev. H ■ 

of the Kentucky conference, related to me 
the following incident, in regard to himself: 
When admitted to Conference, his first ap- 
pointment was to the mountains of western 
Virginia. His presiding elder requested 
him to study first the branches of science 
laid down in the " regular course of read- 



852 



THE SACEED HOUR. 



ing," for candidates for " deacon's orders." 
He remarked that during the winter he could 
study but little, as he had to lodge in the 
same room with the families among whom 
he had labored. In those clays of log cab- 
ins, parlors and ;i well furnished upper 
rooms" were not to be found in that region 
of country. However, in the summer he re- 
sorted to the woods to study the "prescribed 
sciences/' i; sir," said he, i; no language 
can describe how Satan buffeted me for a long 
season." Logic and rhetoric were dry and 
uninteresting studies to a man far from home 
— from wife and children. 4i At one time," 
said he. " I had a fearful struggle, which 
lasted for several hours, and I had almost 
made up my mind to quit the field and re- 
turn to my worldly occupation. But God be 
praised, as I put my books on science into 
my saddle bags, my hand rested upon my 
pocket Bible. 1 took it out and commenced 
reading in it; I soon became deeply interest- 
ed. Bright and celestial rays darted into 
my soul and divine glory gilded the sacred 
page. O, brother Gaddis," said my dear 
brother H " the mountains were soon 



THE SACRED HOUR. 353 

on fire, and I arose and made the grand 
old forest echo with my loud shouts of %i glo- 
ry to God in the highest ; on earth peace 
and good will to men. " Ah! my dear 
reader, he saw by faith, while reading the 
Bible, what the servant of Elisha could not 
see — the mountain full of horses and char- 
iots. " After this victory," said the minis- 
ter, " I always took my Bible with me to 
the woods, to set my logic and khetorio 
on fire." O then read God's precious 
word constantly. Pray, also, as did Baxter, 
Luther, Wesley, Whitfield, Fletcher, As- 
bury, McKendre, Hedding, and many 
whom I might mention of more modern 
times, and God will make you strong 
to labor. We may almost do as much 
good in our closets by importunate, agoniz- 
ing prayer, as many ministers accomplish 
in the pulpit. John Knox was a man 
of mighty prayer. The Popish Queen of 
Scotts declared that she had rather face an 
army of twenty thousand men than the 
prayers of Kev. John Knox. Pray on — 
fight on — rejoice evermore. Gird on the 

armor anew. Work for God. Be in ear- 
23 J 



354 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



nest — "strive to enter in" — agonize. 
Hope on — ever. Be cheerful and"strong 
in faith, giving glory to God." If persecu- 
ted and afflicted, do not murmur or repine. 
Kemember this — 

— " and humbly kiss the rod, 
The best of all I still have left — 
My Faith, my Bible, akd my God." 

A disposition to distrust the gracious 
providence of God, and to fear that he will 
at last forsake us, has been the <{ infirmity 55 
of the people of God in all ages. Unbelief 
dishonors God — discredits his word and 
gospel too. Never let us give way to it. 
It wrongs three of the attributes of Deity. 
First — His wisdom — as if God did not 
know what was lest for us. Second — His 
power — ■ as if he lacked ability to execute, 
etc. Third — His faithfulness — as if he 
would not perform all that he has promised. 

O, my sister, dismiss your fears. " Have 
faith in God. 55 It will not be long until the 
Master will say, "Call the laborers and 
give them their hire. 55 Should I never 
speak to you again till we meet in glory, I 
would say — Cling to Christ by living faith. 

A recent traveler walking among the ru- 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



355 



ins of Herculaneum, found his way to the 
graveyard, which had been buried for ages. 
He discovered a device upon an ancient 
tomb of a ship just landed in $ort, with all 
her sails folded up. 

A beautiful and expressive figure of the 
close of the christian's voyage over the tem- 
pestuous sea of human life. 

Was it fancy, or did I not see two pil- 
grims journeying through the wilderness of 
this world, toward the land of promise — the 
haven of eternal rest in glory. As I hastily 
approached them — eager to learn the theme 
of their conversation — I perceived that the 
name of one was Unbelief and the other 
Active Faith. 

Unbelief was a man of diminutive stat- 
ure; with a sunken eye, blanched cheek, 
and woe-be-gone appearance. He moved 
slowly, and occasionally walked with a fal- 
tering step. 

Active Faith was a lofty personage ; of 
noble mien, ruddy cheeks, and keen vision. 
He walked with an elastic step, and wore 
almost continually a smiling countenance. 

Unperceived as I followed them on their 



356 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



journey I heard the following interesting 
conversation : 

Unbelief accosted Active Faith in the 
following manner : 

Whither goest thou, pilgrim stranger? 
What is thy name and where is the place of 
thy destination? 

Active Faith responds : My name is Liv- 
ing or Active Faith — I am journeying to 
the place which the Lord said I will give it 
thee. 

Have you never learned to sing that 
sweet song, 

" The land of glory lies 

Beyond old Jordan's stream ; 
A region in the skies, 

Where fields are always green." 

Come, fellow pilgrim, and accompany me 
— and it shall come to pass that whatsoever 
goodness the Lord does to me, he will do to 
thee also. Come, let us urge our way on- 
ward as the day goeth away and the shad- 
ows of the evening are lengthened out. 

Unbelief. I am glad that I have met 
with you, " pilgrim warrior." I have start- 
ed for the same goodly country, but, alas I 



THE SACKED HO US. 



357 



iny soul has been much discouraged " be- 
cause of the way." 

Active Faith. Fellow pilgrim, gird up 
the loins of thy mind, be sober, and hope to 
the end for the grace that is to be brought 
unto thee at the revelation of Jesus Christ. 
Eemember that precious promise : He that 
endureth to the end the same shall he saved. 
Let us unite to sing, 

" The rougher the ^ay the shorter our stay, 

And the storms that arise 

ShaU gloriously hurry us home to the skies." 

Unbelief. Were there no graves in 
Egypt — why has God brought us out into the 
wilderness to die ? This is a land that eats 
up its inhabitants. We shall one day surely 
perish with hunger or fall by the edge of 
the sword. 

Active Faith. Fear not, thou worm Ja- 
cob. Our God feeds the young ravens when 
they cry, and takes care of oxen and sheep. 
He has numbered even the hairs of your 
head. Do you not recollect this promise — ■ 
Thy bread shall be given thee and thy wa- 
ter shall be sure. He will dispossess all our 
enemies and drive them out before our face. 



858 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



One shall chase a thousand, and two put ten 
thousand to flight. 

" His word our light — His arm our guide ; 

A fire by night, — a cloud by day ; 
O'er mountain, plain, or billowy tide, 

We urge our undiverted way ; 
"With such a guide close by our side 

"We cannot fail, we cannot stray." 

Unbelief. My soul is still cast down 
within me. My enemies continually say 
unto me, "Where is now thy God ? Day and 
night they reproach me, saying, Persecute 
and take him — The Lord hath forsaken 
him. 

Active Faith. He that keepeth Israel 
does not slumber nor sleep. Our God is 
near at hand and not afar off. He that 
toucheth you toucheth the apple of his eye. 

think of that sweet promise, When thou 
passest through the water it shall not over- 
flow thee, and through the fires they shall 
not kindle upon thee : / am thy God. Yea, 

1 will uphold thee "by the right hand of my 
righteousness. Dismiss your fears and let 
us sing, 

" Who then shall violate our rest, 
While thou art intimately nigh ; 



THE SACRED HOUR. 



359 



Sin, earth, and hell I now defy ; 
I lean upon my Savior's breast." 

Unbelief. But is it not -written some- 
where in the Scriptures that God will cast 
off forever? — that lie will he favorable no 
more. 

Active Faith. O, no. But it is thus 
written for your encouragement: Though 
he cause grief, yet will he have compassion. 
His anger endureth for a moment. In a lit- 
tle wrath I hid my face from thee for a mo- 
ment, but with everlasting kindness will I 
have mercy on thee, saith the Lord thy Re- 
deemer. 

Can a woman forget her child, that she 
should not have compassion on the son of 
her womb ? Tea, she may forget ; yet will 
I not forget thee. Mine is an unchanging 
love ; higher than the hights above ; deeper 
than the depths beneath. Behold I have 
graven thee upon the palms of my hands — 
set thee as a seal upon my heart and a signet 
upon my arm. 

TJnbeief. Is not his mercy clean gone 
forever? 

Active Faith. O, Kb ! It is from ever- 



360 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



lasting to everlasting upon them that fear 
him, and his righteousness unto children's 
children, to such as keep his covenant, and 
to those that remember his commandments 
to do them. It endureth unto all genera- 
tions. 

Unbelief. Has not God forgotten to be 

gracious? 

Active Faith. I answer no. He is full 
of compassion. As a father pitieth his 
children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear 
him. Then 

" Give to tlxe winds thy fears ; 
Hope and be undismayed." 

Ukbeief. Has not God in anger shut up 
his tender mercies? 

Active Faith. O no! They are new 
every morning; his compassion fails not, 
therefore we are not consumed. 

" He'll never qnencli the smoking flax 
But raise it to a flame ; 
The bruised reed he'll never break, 
Kor scorn the meanest name." 

Unbelief. My strength and hope is per- 
ished from the Lord. I know that I shall 
fall one day by the hand of Saul. 

Active Faith. The Lord has been my 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



361 



hope from my youth up. By my God I 
shall do valiantly. By my God I have run 
through a troop and leaped over a wall. 
Through Christ strengthening me I can do 
all things. 

Ubelief. I will go mourning all the days 
of my life. I will go down to the grave in 
sorrow. 

" Ere first I drew my vital breath, 

From nature's prison free, 
Crosses in number, measure, "weight, 

Were written, Lord, for me." 

Active Faith. I will rejoice in the Lord, 
and joy in the God of my salvation. In 
his favor is life ; though weeping may con- 
tinue for a night, joy will come in the morn- 
ing. Cheer up — 

" For thou, my Shepherd, Friend and Guide, 

Hast led me gently on ; 
Taught me to lay my fainting head 

On Christ, the Cor>-er-Stone." 

Unbelief. All these things make against 
me. 

Active Faith. And we know that all 
things work together for good, to them that 
love God — to them who are the called of 
God, according to his purpose. 

" What though thou rulest not, 
Yet Heaven and Earth and Hell 
24 



362 



THE SACRED HOUK. 



Proclaim God sitteth on the throne, 
And ruleth all things well." 

They have just emerged from the wil 
derness. — The time storm is dying away 
Its last angry moan is heard in the dis» 
tance. They are drawing near the banks 
of the river. 

Unbelief asks once more — Does not His 

PROMISE FAIL FOREVERMORE ? 

Active Faith responds, in an audible 
voice — Ho! Hot! No! I! We have the 
promise and the oath of God both, to assure 
our hearts. God is not man that he should 
lie, nor the son of man that he should re- 
pent. He hath said, be thou faithful unto 
death, and I will give thee a crown of life. 
Now his promises are all Yea and Amen. 
Faithful is he who hath promised, who also 
will do it. 

Unbelief. 

"Pilgrim, see that stream before thee, 
Darkly winding through ihe vale, 

Should its deadly waves roll o'er thee," 
Then would not thy courage fail ? " 

Active Faith. 

"N"o — that stream hath nothing frightful, 
To it's banks my steps I'll bend ; 

There to plunge will be delightful — 1 
There my pilgrimage t^ill end," 



THE SACKED HOUR. 



363 



Unbei ief. 

" But tim'rous mortals start and shrink, 

To cross the narrow flood, 
And linger shivering on the brink, 

And fear to launch away. 
0, could we make those doubts remove — 

Those gloomy doubts that rise -— 
And see the Canaan that we love, 

With unbeclouded eyes/' 

Active Faith. 

"Shudder not to pass the stream, 
Venture all thy care on Him ; 
Him whose dying love and power 
StilTd its tossing, hush'd its roar. 

"Safe is the expanded wave — 
Gentle as a summer's eve ; 
Not one object of his care 
Ever suffered shipwreck there. 
"See the haven full in view ; 
Love divine shall bear thee through : 
Trust to that propitious gale ; 
"Weigh thine anchor, spread thy sail." 

He then turns to Unbelief and bids him 
an eternal farewell. — Come, Lokd Jesus, and 

COME QUICKLY. 

With undaunted courage he plunges into 
the chilly waters of the Jordan of death. 
After buffeting the boisterous waves for a 
few painful moments, he is taken in by the 
Life Boat, commanded by the Pilot of the 
Lake of Galilee. Soon the well-known 
voice of the Captain of his Salvation is 



36i 



THE SACRED HOtTB. 



heard above the howling of the tempest 
saying, "Peace, be still/ 5 

The ragings of the storm cease. The 
Faithful Pilgrim " looks aloft " and beholds 
inscribed in letters of gold, upon the ban- 
ner of salvation, as it floats triumphantly in 
the breeze — 

HOMEWARD BOUND I 
FOR THE CITY OF THE NEW JERUSALEM ! 

Then with an exulting spirit, he raises 
his voice in a farewell song to earth. 

"When for eternal worlds we steer, 
And seas are calm, and skies are clear, 
And faith in lively exercise, 
The distant hills of Canaan rise, 
The soul for joy now claps her wings, 
And loud her Heavenly sonnel sings — 
Vain world adieu. 

" With cheerful hope her eyes explore 
Each landmark on the distant shore ; 
The trees of life, the pasture's green, 
The golden streets, the ciystal stream, 
Again for joy she claps her wings, 
And loud her Heavenly anthem sings — 
I am going home. 

"The nearer still she draws to land, 
More eager all her powers expand : 
With steady helm, and free bent sail, 
Her anchor drops within the vail. 
And now for joy she folds her winga 
And her celestial sonnet sings — 

I AM SAFE AT HOME ! 



Valuable and Popular Works. 
FOOT-PRINTS OF AN ITINERANT. 

BY REV. MAXWELL P. GADDIS, OF THE CIN- 
CINNATI CONFERENCE. 
FOURTEEN THOUSAND COPIES 

ISSUED IN THREE YEARS. 

This work is published for the author at the Western 
Book Concern, by Messrs. Swormsted <fc Poe, Cincinnati, 
O. Pages 546 — price $1,00 — gilt edges $1,25, with 
the usual discount to the wholesale purchaser. It may 
also be procured at wholesale and retail at all the Meth- 
odist Book Stores. 

EXTRACTS OF TESTIMONIALS. 

From Dr. Thomas Bond, of New York. 

This is a stirring narrative and a very instructive 
volume. Revelation and experience are the true sources 
of religious knowledge, and this biography presents a 
fine exemplification of the efficiency of the itinerant 
mode of Gospel ministration adopted by Wesley, and 
still perpetuated in Europe and America, and still 
owned and blessed by the great Head of the Church to 

the spread of Scriptural holiness on the earth 

In addition to his autobiography, the volume abounds 
with incidents which came under his own observation, 
and all either calculated to alarm the unconverted, or to 
build up believers in their most holy faith. It pleased 
God to give him great success in his labors — wonderful 
success indeed. In all the circuits and stations in 
which he was appointed to minister in the word and 
doctrine, souls were given to him for his hire, and in 
most there was great outpouring of the Holy Spirit, and 
a large ingathering to the fold of Christ. 

We commend this precious volume to readers of all 
classes, but especially to ministers of the Gospel. It will 
enlarge their knowledge of divine things, quicken their 
spirituality, warm their zeal and earnestness in their 
only legitimate work — the endeavor to save souls, and 
direct them, by both precept and example, how to ac- 
complish the work whereuHto they are called. 



From Dr. J. V. Watson, of Chicago, III. 

This is a work by our old friend — one who is the 
friend of every good man — aye, of all the world — 
Maxwell Pieesox Gaddis, of the Cincinnati conference. 
It abounds in those touches of nature that make every 
man akin. It will come over the souls of the Methodists 
like the music of other and more primitive days, when 
the candle of the Lord shone upon their heads, and the 
world seemed to be less in a hurry to get to perdition, 
and heaven more familiar because nearer. The Chinese 
think the spirits of the departed linger where their bod- 
ies were laid, and resort to their graves to commune 
with them. "With no superstitious views of the matter, 
it may be well said that there are unnumbered thous- 
ands of Methodists throughout the west, who yet hear 
voices and hosanna shouts rising from the disappearing 

beechen and maple groves of Ohio and Indiana The 

past in Methodist history, must ever be pregnant with 
memories pleasant to the heart as the balm of a thousand 
flowers. Mr. Gaddis's book is another of those volumes 
that restores such reminiscences, with all the freshness of 
a spring morning. It is like the winding shell that ev- 
er sings into the ear of the superannuated marriner, a 
sad refrain of his ocean home, now far away, kindling 
grief-sweetened and grief-chastened joy in his dampened 
eye. And as an addition to this department of our lit- 
erature, incomparably the most popular of any we have, 
" Foot-Prints " will doubtless contest the palm of public 
favor with any that has yet appeared. JN"or will Method 
ists alone be delighted and edified with it. It is a 
narrative of providence and grace in the concrete, and 
will be a banquet to eveiy soul possessing spiritual af- 
fections. It is written in a spirit of all confiding pie- 
ty, and with great simplicity. — N. W. Ch. Advocate. 

Mr. Gaddis has given to the public, in this hand- 
some volume, highly interesting sketches of pioneer 
history, in a department of life too often overlooked by 
the historian or historical sketch er. Prominent men, 
interesting localities, peculiar circumstances, and strik- 
ing incidents, are here all recorded by a truthful a^id 
intelligent character, and they will prove as pleasant 
reminiscences of days lang syne as any of the necessa- 
rily simple annals of the pioneer period. In addition 
to his personal experience, the author has sketched the 
rise, progress, character and prospects of several litera 

2 



ry ana educational institutions of the church in the 
west. Taken altogether, we like this book much, and 
can conscientiously recommend it as a pleasant and in- 
structive review of the really good old times in Ohio. 
« — Cincinnati Daily Times. 

From Dr. B. P. Aydelotte, for many years President of 
Woodward College. 

The perfect simplicity of brother Gaddis's style, gives 
a life-like truthfulness to all his descriptions. As he 
leads you on, from scene to scene, the whole is dagner- 
reotyped before you. I cannot, therefore, sympathise 
with the author when he tells us by way of apology that 
his feeble health would not permit him to revise his 
narrative. He would have spoiled it, I am confident, 
Lad he attempted to improve it. I would almost as 
soon think of polishing the style of the ingenious 
dreamer of Bedford jail — John Bunyan. The result of 
such a process could scarcely fail to be a volume cold- 
ly correct and logically dull, — one in all respects just 
ike opposite to the " Foot-Prints." 

It would be impossible to give a greater amount of 
facts and incidents in a smaller compass 

It will please and profit the pious of every name, 
and even worldly readers cannot resist the charm of its 
narrative. 

You have now my complaint against the " Itinerant" 
for interrupting my studies ; perhaps you may have a 
similar ground of complaint against him. I leave him 
to your judgment. But I must in duty bound, add that 
I heartily forgive him, and thank him too, for the enter- 
tainment and edification with which I have hung over 
his " Foot-Prints/ 

Cincinnati Sep. 25, '55. B. P. Aydelotte. 

From Dr. Edward Thomson, President of the Ohio Wes- 

leyan University. 
■ One cannot easily rise from it till he has finished 
the last chapter, and when he has finished it he can 
scarcely fail to feel that he is a better man. It is well 
calculated to make a deep religious impression, and 
should be circulated among young men ; to such of 
them as have ever been sensible of a call to preach, it 
will be a trumpet note — to all it will be full 01 salutary 
warning and admonition. 



It seems, like the author himself, to be a universal 

favorite, for the press, both secular and religious, is 
loud in its praise. I was particularly struck with the 
volunteer notice of our friend, Rev. Dr. Aydelotte, than 
which the author need desire nothing more. 

It is very gratifying to learn that the book is likely 
to have an extensive sale, both at the east and west. 

E. Thomson. 

October 29, '55. 

From Dr. John P. Durbin. 

It contains fresh pictures of early Western itinerant 
life among Methodist ministers, and is imbued with the 
spirit of piety. There are remarkable and beautiful in- 
cidents and passages in it, which illustrate life in the 
early church in the West. John P. Durbin. 

Philadelphia, Nov., 1855. 

From Dr. D. P. Kidder, of New York. 

It is really surprising to see what a series of thrill- 
ing incidents Mr. Gaddis has been able to collect from 
the scenes of real life, through which he has passed. 
All these are related with great pertinence, and made 
to bear upon the subject of religion. I am assured by 
some young persons who have read the volume, that its 
narratives are decidedly more interesting than Jiction, 
while they can scarcely fail to leave good impressions on 
the mind and heart. I take pleasure in recommending 
this book to those who have not become acquainted 
with it. D. P. Kidder. 

New York, Dec. 4, 1855. 

From Rev. Thomas M. Eddy,D. D.,of Indianapolis. 
I am highly delighted to see how wide is the de- 
mand for the " Foot-Prints" of Rev. Maxwell P. Gaddis. 
I meet it everywhere I go, in town and country — among 
rich and poor. Many buy and many borrow it. And 
wherein lies its charm ? I answer, that the book is 
readable per se. It is written in simple, earnest style, 
and such the people love. But there is another — it 
lifts the vail and gives a view of the inside life of itin- 
erancy ; it opens the closet door and leads us into its 
secret struggles, its heart anguish, its prayers, its vital- 
ized realities ! It paints the facts which make the chiv- 
alry of iunerancy ; it is a living panorama. 

4 



From Hon. Judge Storer, of Cincinnati. 

The simple vet beautiful and touching description of 
the many incidents this excellent man has been permit 
etd, in the discharge of his religious duties to witness, 
Lis untiring labor, strong faith, and ardent piety, give 
no ordinary value to the work. It is refreshing in this 
age of artificial thought and cold formalism, when phi- 
losophy, falsely so called, has taken the place of the old 
fashioned gospel, to find here an outpouring of true 
evangelical feeling assuring us that the writer of these 
delightful pages is a christian in the highest sense : not 
the follower of a sect, but of our common Master. 
We earnestly hope the volume may find its way into 
every christian family ; no one, certainly can read it 
without being made wiser and better. 

From Bishop Hamline. 

Schenectady, Oct. 18, 1855. 

My Dear Brother : — Your book has been a feast 

indeed to me and my family I was not aware 

that you had so may choice incidents, full of instruc- 
tion as well as entertainment on hand. 

To speak plainly, it is a rare book, and will not on- 
ly do good to thousands, but will preach to multitudes 
after you ascend to glory. It is destined to an exten- 
sive sale, and not for a brief period, but for years and 
years to come. It will rank among the very best books 
of its class, while Methodism and its ministers are loved 
on earth. So I believe. L. L. Hamline. 

From Dr. D. W. Clarke, Editor of the Ladies' Repository. 

Brother Gaddis is one of the most genial spirits we 
have met with in the west ; his experience has been 
largely varied, and its details and incidents now gath- 
ered into a volume, make a most telling work. We trust 
that its circulation will keep pace with, and even excel 
that of the autobiography of the Old Chief. 

From Rev. C. Moore, Editor of the Masonic Review. 

We have given this book a thorough reading, and 
now thank the author for furnishing us a work so full 
of interesting description and thrilling narrative. Its 
pencilings are drawn by a master hand, and its sketch- 
es of scenes and characters are true to the life. Its sto- 
ries are told with a truthfulness and vividness that move 
the heart, and despite of philosophy the tears will flow 



5 



— luxurious tears that make you feel happier when yoxa 

have shed them. We cordially commend this volume 
by Brother Gaddis, to our readers. They will realize the 
worth of their money twice told, every time they read it. 
From the Home Circle, published at Nashville, Tenn. 
To us this book is a treasure. Its author, one of 
the kindliest spirits we have ever known, has long been 
our cherished friend. He has been an eminently suc- 
cessful itinerant, having labored in some of the most 
extensive and remarkable revivals of religion which 
have occurred during the last twenty years ; and we 
suppose there is not in Ohio a man of his age so uni- 
versally beloved by the Methodists. In tracing his 
" Foot-Prints," we have been led to many a " remember- 
ed spot,'' while the portrait and autograph are as famil- 
iar and dear as things of the household. The work 
will of course have a large circulation where the au- 
thor is known ; and we can assure our people that its 
pages will impart instruction and comfort wherever 

they are read "Will Brother Gaddis accept 

our thanks for the copy sent us, with the assurance 
that the inscription on the blank page greatly enhances 
its value 2 



OHIO CONFEEENCE OFFERING: 

OR, 

SERMONS AND SKETCHES OF SERMONS, FROM 
THE LIVING AND THE DEAD. 

EDITED BY 

REV. MAXWELL P. GADDIS, OF THE CINCINNATI 
CONFERENCE. 

This is a neat duodecimo volume of 423 pages. 

TESTIMONIALS. 

The volume is worthy of a most extended circula- 
tion, in view of its intrinsic excellence. 

Quarterly Review, 

This is a very pleasant and delightful Methodist 
book, whose character is eminently befitting the idea 
conveyed in its title — an offering. We would that we 
had many such. In its conception and execution it is 
well worthy the talents and reputation of its author, and 

6 



an honor to the Conference it represents. It is an ec ■ 
clesiastical "boquet" of richest gems and flowers. 

Nashville Christian Advocate. 

Many obligations to brother Gaddis for this beauti- 
ful and worthy " Offering," and this expression em- 
braces the sentiment of all whom we have heard give 
an opinion of the work. The first part affords sure ev- 
idence of the talent and purity of those who are to be- 
come counsellors of the church. The second part em- 
braces the sermons from Edward Tiffin, M. D., Rev. 
Win, B. Christie, Rev. Russel Bigelow and Rev. John 
Ferree. It was a happy thought thus to connect the dead 
with the living, — linking the past with the present ; 
and this is a fitting depository for the literary remains 
of those who have died in the service of the church. 

Bishop Simpson. 

The above work is issued in the handsomest style 
of the Western Methodist Book Concern in Cincinnati. 
In the frontispiece there is a beautiful steel engraving of 
the old pioneer, Rev. Jacob Young, to whom the " Of- 
fering " is dedicated, as a token of respect. This work 
has been warmly recommended by the press, and has 
had a wide circulation. Each copy of the Offering 
will in future be accompanied with accurate and beauti- 
fully engraved steel portraits of the Bench of Bishops, 
in 1848, — Bishops Hedding, Waugh, Morris, Hamline, 
Janes. This print also contains fac similie signatures 
of the Bishops. The Offering and Portraits of the 
Bishops, which formerly sold for $1,50 at retail, are now 
offered for sale together, by Messrs. Swormsted & Poe, 
at the low price of $1,00, at retail, with the usual dis- 
count to wholesale purchasers. This work may also be 
had at retail, of the author, at Dayton, Ohio. 



THE SACRED HOUR, 

BY 

REY. MAXWELL P. GADDIS, 
OF THE CINCINNATI CONFERENCE. 
Stereotyped by John K. Gerhard, at the office of the Re- 
ligious Telescope, Dayton, 0, and printed for the Au- 
thor by Messrs. Swormstedt & Toe, at the M. E. Book 
Concern, Cincinnati. Price 60c. — gilt edge, 75c. 

This work may also be had at any of our Methodist 
Book Stores, East, West, North and South. 

7 



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